Police target kidnappers, bandits in Nasarawa forests search

The Nasarawa State Police Command has commenced a special operation to flush out bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminals staying in forests across the state.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Shetima Mohammed, flagged off the operation on Wednesday in Lafia while addressing operatives before moving into Alagye Forest in the Doma Local Government Area of the State.

According to Mohammed, the exercise is in compliance with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, to enhance security and restore lasting peace in the state.

He revealed that tactical squads, anti-kidnapping units and intelligence operatives have been deployed to identified flashpoints and forest corridors.

He stated that the operation will last till the end of December, charging officers involved to display professionalism and adhere strictly to rules of engagement.

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To ensure effective coordination, the CP said the state has been split into three operational sectors.

“Sector A which covers Lafia zone is under ACP Lamidu Alkali, Squadron Commander of MOPOL 58, Lafia. Sector B covering Akwanga zone is headed by ACP Kadir Umar, Squadron Commander of MOPOL 38, Akwanga, while Sector C covering Keffi zone is led by ACP Olobekga Saligo, Squadron Commander of MOPOL 69, Toto,” he said.

He further disclosed that the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Sanusi Jidda, will coordinate activities across all three sectors for the successful dismantling of criminal camps.

Mohammed appealed to residents to volunteer timely and credible information on suspicious movements, assuring that such information would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

He urged the public to remain law abiding and go about their legitimate businesses, reiterating the Command’s commitment to the protection of lives and property.