Police arrest 10,852 people in three months — Nigeria — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

As many as 10,852 suspects were arrested between July and October 2024, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has revealed.

Additionally, a total of 416 weapons, 3,672 ammunition and 178 vehicles were recovered, while 369 kidnapped citizens were rescued.

Egbetokun made this disclosure during a meeting with police commissioners and other senior officers in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to him, recent statistics indicate a substantial decline in crime rates in key areas, including significant progress in combating violent crimes such as banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery and cybercrime.

“From July to October this year, the Nigerian Police managed to rescue 369 kidnapped victims, recover 416 firearms of different brands, recover 178 vehicles and seize 3,672 rounds of different calibers. Additionally, a total of 10,852 suspects were arrested across the country,” he said.

Egbetokun said the police were adequately preparing for the Ondo governorship election.

He said: “As we prepare for the upcoming off-cycle governorship elections in Ondo State, I urge all involved to replicate and build on the successes recorded in the elections in the Edo State.

“We must ensure a solid security architecture and that agents carry out their duties with impartiality and the utmost professionalism. Our mission is to provide a safe environment where voters can freely exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.

“We will continue to collaborate with other security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission and stakeholders to ensure that elections in Ondo State are conducted freely, fairly and credibly, enabling all voters to exercise their rights without any fear of intimidation.

(Announcement)

He also said patrols would be increased and other measures put in place to ensure the safety of lives and property throughout September.

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Egbetokun said: “As we continue the ember month, a period traditionally associated with heightened security challenges, the imperative for vigilance, increased flexibility and proactive policing becomes even more critical.

“Criminal elements are frequently exploiting this season, requiring our strategic foresight to stay ahead of the game. Our approach should include increased patrols and intelligence-led, community-driven operations to ensure public safety throughout the holiday season.

“It is crucial that we intensify our efforts to secure all areas, particularly urban and semi-urban centers, major highways, and collaborate effectively with other security agencies and stakeholders to strengthen security at the national scale. »