The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of police personnel to strategic locations, key areas, and crime hotspots nationwide.
The directive aims to tackle traffic robberies, highway crimes, and other criminal activities during the festive season.
This was disclosed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Thursday.
According to Adejobi, the initiative is part of efforts to ensure the safety and protection of lives and property as mobility and public gatherings increase.
“The IGP has directed the immediate deployment of adequate personnel to strategic locations, key areas, and identified hotspots across all states. This initiative is aimed at curbing traffic, highway robberies, and other criminal activities during this period of increased mobility, public gatherings, and celebrations,” the statement read.
Adejobi emphasized that police presence would be intensified on major highways and roads prone to criminal activities, especially highway robberies, which tend to spike during festive seasons.
“The Force is committed to providing a safe environment during and beyond the Yuletide season. Security operatives will deter crimes through increased police presence and visibility,” Adejobi noted.
He assured Nigerians that the police were fully prepared to ensure a crime-free festive season and urged the public to cooperate with officers by reporting any suspicious activities.
Adejobi highlighted recent successes in combating crime.
On December 10, 2024, police operatives in Lagos State arrested four suspected robbers—Akeem Alabi, Adewale Sogbesan, Emmanuel Izeagbe, and Francis Okoko—who were part of a robbery syndicate operating around the Costain area.
Similarly, on December 6, 2024, police operatives in Anambra State arrested a suspected armed robber, Miracle Mwakaloi, in Awka. A search of his residence led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles.
The Force spokesman urged citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement officers, and report suspicious activities to authorities.
“The IGP encourages Nigerians to work with the police to ensure the festive period is celebrated without the threat of crime,” Adejobi said.
These measures reaffirm the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to safeguarding the public as the country enters a season of heightened activity and celebration.