IG asks groups to support security agencies with logistics and tools to combat crime

Abiodun OBA

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba, on Monday reiterated the need for political actors, corporate agencies and individuals to support security agencies with logistics and tools, to combat crime.

Baba reiterated the need while  inaugurating 50 Hilux vehicles and 200 motorcycles, procured by Plateau Government to curb insecurity in Jos, Plateau state.

The Police Boss said the donation of the vehicles to the security agencies would encourage their personnel to stabilise internal security.

“This initiative of his Excellency would undoubtedly motivate security personnel to operate optimally and remain steps ahead of criminal elements in the battle to reassure citizens of security and safety in Plateau,” he said.

The IG thanked Gov. Simon Lalong for enhancing the operational capacity of all security agencies in the state to ensure the safety of lives and property.

According to him, security of Plateau State was threatened by attacks of bandits, herders and other criminal elements, adding that the cases of arms trafficking and proliferation of illegal firearms had further worsened the situation.

Baba pointed out that a special police operation team recently arrested a 7-man criminal syndicate with expertise in local fabrication of AK-47 whom were supplying firearms to bandits in Plateau and other states.

The IGP said the criminal gang whose firearms manufacturer is based in Plateau, sent a clear indication of the need to beef up security in the state.

He assured the governor that his sacrifice of procuring the items in spite of dwindling resources, was a challenge for the beneficiaries of the items to discharge their duties effectively and diligently.

” I assure that the huge investment will not be in vain and I assure that we shall not fail you,” the IGP said.

Speaking at the event, Lalong said he was committed to bringing down the level of insecurity in the state through his establishment of the Plateau Peace Building Agency and its Security Surveillance Centre at Dutse Uku, Jos-Jarawa.

Lalong revealed that as part of the implementation processes of community policing, 529 Community Police Constables were trained and deployed to the 17 local government areas of the state.

The governor promised that the procured vehicles would be equipped with communication gadgets to enhance rapid response and continuous surveillance, explaining that the motorcycles would ensure access to remote locations used as hideouts by criminals.

”There is no more hiding place for criminals in Plateau,” the governor said .

He warned against the misuse of the vehicles by the beneficiaries, saying they were not for private or political use.

“We expect a good maintenance culture and accountable usage of the vehicles,” he said.