The IGP has declared that the security forces would be decisive in their renewed bid to contain kidnappers and armed bandits threatening the FCT.
Abuja had witnessed rampant kidnapping of residents for ransom, especially in the outskirts, lately, often resulting in deaths, while some are still in captivity.
In furtherance of the security imperatives of the nation’s seat of power, Egbetokun launched a Special Intervention Squad (SIS) to contain the activities of kidnappers and other criminalities in Abuja.
Speaking at the launch of SIS, the IGP said the intervention was precipitated by the alarming rise in violent crimes, which required commensurate response.
He stated, “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).”
Egbetokun said the intervention squad was “conceived as an elite unit of the Nigeria Police Force. The SIS 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.”
He explained that SIS stood as a testament to the rejection of criminality in all forms.
Egbetokun stated, “It is a declaration of our commitment to reclaiming our streets, neighbourhoods, and cities from the clutches of lawlessness.
“We are mobilising the entirety of our resources, both human and technological, to ensure the triumph of justice and to provide our citizens the liberty to live without fear for their own safety and that of their loved ones.”
He said the squad was “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.
“These assets, some of which are displayed here, are ready for deployment to counteract the security threats. This deployment symbolises 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.”
The IGP further assured that the intervention was not symbolic.
He said, “To all citizens of Nigeria, we assure you that this operation is not a mere symbolic act. It is a tangible demonstration of our dedication to your security. We recognise the suffering endured by victims of violent crimes and the anxiety pervading our communities.
“This operation is intended to bring a swift and decisive end to this era of terror. It should also be noted that we are collaborating with the military and other security agencies in ensuring the success and we are confident that with your support, we will be successful.
“As we inaugurate the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) today in the FCT, let us unite against the forces threatening the very fabric of our society.
“May this operation serve as a beacon of hope as we collectively strive to make the FCT, its environs, and, ultimately, the entire nation, safer for all. May justice be swift, and may peace permeate the entire landscape of Nigeria.”
FCTA to Compile List of Illegal Settlements, Shanties in Abuja
The Department of Development Control of FCT Administration has begun to compile a list of all shanties and informal settlements for verification purpose. Director of the Department of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, disclosed this during the removal of illegal shanties and shops at Durumi.
Galadima said the move was aimed at identifying and addressing the issue of illegal shanties and informal settlements that could harbour criminal activities.
He added that the plan was also part of the administration’s broader strategy to enhance security and orderly development within the FCT.
Galadima stated, “Looking at the rising insecurity in FCT, we were mandated to clear all shanties and squatter settlements in the Federal Capital Territory. So, this is in line with the directive given by the FCT Administration.
“The exercise is not limited to the city centre, we are going beyond the city centre. But we have a line of direction, that is why we are starting from the city centre outward.
“Where we are clearing now is the continuation of Moshood Abiola Way, which starts from the International Conference Centre, runs through Area 10, Area 2, down to Durumi, going to Games Village. You can see this is a road stretch known as Festival Road then.”
Meanwhile, Secretary, Command and Control, FCTA Department of Security Service, Dr Peter Olumuji, described Durumi as a particularly notorious spot, where people arbitrarily build on road corridors because of the belief that the authorities could not have a definite address to track them down.
Olumuji stated, “So, that is why we are here, as we are clearing it, we are removing the vices within this environment because most of these boys here around in the night time they become something else to those who ply this road and even under Area 1 bridge. This is a holistic clearance we are also doing in curbing crime.”
On the sale of drugs, Olumuji said the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the task team had been going round and some substances, suspected to be Indian hemp, had been confiscated.
Olumuji said, “That is part of the devices we are talking about because here, people have access to any type of drugs and what we are also doing, like I said, is holistic. Definitely, as we clear them, they will have no way to stay around and they will just have to leave this environment.”
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