The Nigeria Police Force has arrested 10,852 suspects across the country in the past three months for various criminal activities, according to Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Olukayode Egbetokun.
The arrests, which took place between July and September, targeted individuals involved in serious crimes such as kidnapping, banditry, and armed robbery.
During a high-level meeting with senior officers from the rank of Commissioner and above, Egbetokun revealed that, in addition to the arrests, law enforcement had recovered 416 firearms, 3,672 rounds of ammunition, and 178 stolen vehicles.
Furthermore, 369 kidnapped victims were rescued during this period.
“There has been a significant decrease in crime rates across the country in critical areas such as banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, and cybercrime,” the IGP noted.
The meeting also addressed security preparations for the upcoming Ondo State governorship election on November 16.
Egbetokun declared the police force’s readiness to ensure a peaceful and secure electoral process, emphasizing the need for officers to conduct themselves with professionalism.
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“As we prepare for the Ondo State off-cycle gubernatorial election, I urge all involved to replicate and build upon the successes recorded in Edo,” he said.
“We must ensure a robust security architecture that allows voters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.”
Egbetokun pledged continued cooperation with other security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other stakeholders to safeguard lives and property before, during, and after the election.
In light of the approaching holiday season, the IGP also highlighted the need for increased vigilance during the ’ember months—traditionally a time of heightened security challenges in Nigeria.
He emphasized the importance of proactive policing, including increased patrols and intelligence-driven operations to combat potential criminal activity during this period.
“Our approach should include increased patrols, intelligence-driven, and community-oriented operations to ensure public safety throughout the holiday period,” Egbetokun added, urging his officers to remain alert and adaptable as they continue their efforts to protect the nation.
