Yuletide : IGP Egbetokun directs massive deployment of personnel

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered the strategic deployment of personnel and operational assets across the country to ensure a safe, peaceful and crime-free Christmas and New Year celebration.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, ahead of the festivities.

The statement explained that, in line with the Force’s proactive security strategy for the festive season, the IGP directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) and State Command Commissioners of Police (CPs) to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations and confidence-building engagements throughout the period.

According to the statement, “specialised units, including the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Command, Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, Special Intervention Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police and the Air Wing, have been placed on heightened operational readiness.

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“The deployment also focuses on places of worship, recreational centres, markets, parks, event venues, transport terminals, highways, critical national infrastructure and other high-density public spaces.

“Additional patrol teams and surveillance units have also been activated to cover inter-state routes and major expressways to prevent road-related crimes, traffic disorder and accidents. The deployed officers have been charged to be firm but courteous in the discharge of their duties.”

The statement further added that the IGP also ordered all Commands to sustain raids on identified black spots, forests, criminal hideouts and flashpoints, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to ensure holistic security coverage.

While wishing Nigerians a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year, the Inspector-General of Police urged citizens to remain vigilant, celebrate responsibly and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through available emergency lines.