IG unveils 169-man special squad against banditry, kidnapping

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Monday, inaugurated no fewer than 169 officers of the newly established Special Intervention Squad to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other crimes in the country.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony of the officers at the Police Mobile Force Training College, Ende Hills in the Nassarawa Eggon Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, the IG explained that the SIS signified a significant advancement in its operational strategy, drawing upon the best practices of globally successful law enforcement models.

He narrated that the unit was meticulously crafted to fill the critical gaps in the police current system, adding that it would provide a robust mechanism for rapid response and high-impact intervention.

Egbetokun said, “This occasion marks a significant milestone in our unwavering quest for a safer and more secure Nigeria. This event is far from a mere formality; it stands as a powerful testament to our relentless commitment to fortifying national security and protecting the lives of every Nigerian citizen.

“The creation of the Special Intervention Squad was borne out of a clear and urgent vision: to confront the most formidable challenges that beset our nation today — challenges like kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes that have sown discord and fear across various regions of our beloved country.

“These officers have been trained to navigate complex, high-stakes situations with precision, ensuring they are prepared to act swiftly and decisively in scenarios demanding expert attention. This comprehensive training programme encompassed a broad spectrum of subjects, including advanced tactical operations, intelligence gathering, crisis negotiation, and community engagement.”

The IG expressed his gratitude to His Excellency, David Green, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of the United States of America, Abuja, as well as officials from the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, other consular staff, the GS Foundation, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, for their invaluable contributions to the Nigeria Police Force in its fight against all forms of crime in the country.

He further urged the 169 graduating officers to ensure that they approach every challenge with unwavering determination, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct.

“To the graduating officers, as you embark on this critical national assignment, remember that you carry the hopes and expectations of an entire nation. Your mission goes beyond merely fighting crimes, it includes building bridges with the communities you serve.

“Our goal is clear: to create a safer Nigeria where every citizen can live, work, and thrive free from the fear of crime. With the Special Intervention Squad, we are taking a decisive step towards realising this goal. I am confident that this unit will have a substantial and positive impact on our nation’s security landscape,” the IG added.

On his part, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the SIS, Lanre Ogunlowo, said the training of the 169 personnel, which lasted seven weeks, started in Lagos State and ended at the Ende Hills in Nasarawa State.

In her remark, the Minister of State for Police Affairs, Imman Suleiman, appreciated the IG and his team for the good work they were doing to keep the country safe while noting that President Bola Tinubu-led administration was fully in support of the creation of the special squad to fight all forms of insecurity in the country.

Earlier, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, while welcoming dignitaries from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and other parts of the country to the state, commended the police for siting the training college in Ende Hills, and reiterated his administration’s commitment to continue to support the police with the necessary logistics to tackle crime in the state.