IGP launches special intervention squad to tackle bandits in Abuja

The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has launched the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) of the Nigeria Police Force in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to curb the activities of kidnappers and bandits, especially in border towns within the FCT.

Dockaysworld gathered that the squad would be in charge of patrolling and securing the communities within the various borders of the FCT and intervening to curb and mitigate violent attacks in the nation’s capital.

Egbetokun, however, cautioned the officers to be professional and keep to the rules of operations to avoid crisis.

He said: “As I stand before you today, I am imbued with a profound sense of duty as we confront the crisis of kidnappings and violent crimes presently afflicting our esteemed nation, particularly in and around the Federal Capital Territory.

“The alarming rise in these criminal activities without equivocation demands immediate and resolute action from us all. It is thus with a determined spirit that I proudly announce the inauguration of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS).

“Conceived as an elite unit of the Nigeria Police Force, the SIS is composed of specially trained, well equipped and highly mobile police officers, and possesses the capacity for rapid intervention and effective containment of significant security breaches, such as those currently threatening the suburb of the FCT and creating panic generally.

“This initiative is not just born out of necessity but out of foresight, diligent planning, and commitment to enhancing the already robust security architecture of our nation’s capital.

“We must proactively address even the slightest signs of potential threats. We are thus duty-bound to confront all challenges head-on to protect the lives and welfare of our citizens.

“Envisioned to include a thousand personnel in each state, the SIS is launched today with officers and men from each tactical unit of the Force, supplemented by a formidable arsenal of operational assets, including sophisticated arms, drones, and vehicles.

“We must proactively address even the slightest signs of potential threats. We are thus duty-bound to confront all challenges head-on to protect the lives and welfare of our citizens.

“These assets, some of which are displayed here, are ready for deployment to counteract the security threats. This deployment symbolizes our unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our people, sending a clear message that criminal elements will find no sanctuary within the FCT and, by extension, Nigeria.”

Recall that communities in the outskirts of Abuja have been under siege by bandits from neighbouring states.

Dozens of residents have been kidnapped, while several of them have also been killed in the last few weeks.