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IGP inaugurates 169 special squad officers to fight kidnapping, banditry in Nasarawa

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By Muhammed Ogwu, Lafia

At least 169 officers of the newly established Special Intervention Squad to tackle issues relating to kidnapping and banditry activities the 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the officers at the Police Mobile Force Training College, Ende Hills in the Nassarawa Eggon Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, he stated that the SIS signified a significant advancement in its operational strategy, drawing upon the best practices of globally successful law enforcement models.

Mr. Egbetokun explained that the unit was meticulously crafted to fill the critical gaps in the police current system, adding that it would provide a robust mechanism for rapid response and high-impact intervention.

He said, “This occasion marks a significant milestone in our unwavering quest for a safer and more secure Nigeria. This event is far from a mere formality; it stands as a powerful testament to our relentless commitment to fortifying national security and protecting the lives of every Nigerian citizen.

“The creation of the Special Intervention Squad was born from a clear and urgent vision: to confront the most formidable challenges that beset our nation today—challenges like kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes that have sown discord and fear across various regions of our beloved country.

“These officers have been trained to navigate complex, high-stakes situations with precision, ensuring they are prepared to act swiftly and decisively in scenarios demanding expert attention. This comprehensive training program encompassed a broad spectrum of subjects, including advanced tactical operations, intelligence gathering, crisis negotiation, and community engagement.”

He, however, expressed his joy to His Excellency, David Green, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of the United States of America, Abuja, as well as officials from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, other Consular staff, the GS Foundation, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, for their invaluable contributions to the Nigeria Police Force in its fight against all forms of crime in the country.

He further stated that the 169 graduating officers to ensure that they approach every challenge with unwavering determination, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct.

“To the graduating officers, as you embark on this critical national assignment, remember that you carry the hopes and expectations of an entire nation. Your mission goes beyond merely fighting crime; it includes building bridges with the communities you serve.

“Our goal is clear: to create a safer Nigeria where every citizen can live, work, and thrive free from the fear of crime. With the Special Intervention Squad, we are taking a decisive step towards realising this goal. I am confident that this unit will have a substantial and positive impact on our nation’s security landscape,” the IGP concluded.

Earlier, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the SIS, Mr. Lanre Ogunlowo said the training of the 169 personnel which lasted for seven weeks, started in Lagos State and ended at the Ende Hills in Nasarawa State.

On his part, the Minister of State for Police Affairs, Mrs. Imman Suleiman appreciated the IGP and his team for the good work they were doing to keep the country safe, while noting that the President Bola Tinubu’s led-administration was fully in support of the creation of the special squad to fight all forms of insecurity in the country.

In his speech, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule while welcoming dignitaries from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and other parts of the country to the state, commended the Police for citing the training college in Ende Hills, and reiterated his administration’s commitment to continue to support the Police with the necessary logistics to tackle crime in the state.

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