Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has launched nationwide clearance operations targeting bandits, kidnappers, and other violent criminal groups following the recent training and retraining of Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel.

According to a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the operations involve the deployment of tactical teams to identify criminal hideouts, vulnerable locations, and other security flashpoints.

It further added that the operation was to disrupt criminal activities, deny offenders freedom of movement and action, and improve security across communities.

It said that the exercise commenced with a pilot operation at Alagye Village in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, following intelligence reports about a suspected kidnappers’ camp in a nearby forest.

The statement further explained that the Police personnel carried out a tactical survey and clearance of the identified location but found the camp deserted at the time of the operation.

It however disclosed that the exercise would be extended to state commands across the country, with deployments guided by intelligence and prevailing security conditions.

The Police pointed out that all participating personnel had been directed to maintain professionalism, respect human rights and operate within the confines of the law.

The statement further added that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, charged officers involved in the operations to sustain pressure on bandits and other criminal networks, deny them freedom of action and ensure that the exercise delivers tangible improvements in community safety.

IGP Disu further directed the personnel to remain disciplined, professional and responsive throughout the operations.

The police urged members of the public to cooperate with deployed officers and provide credible information that could support ongoing security efforts.

The Force assured Nigerians that updates on the clearance operations would be provided as the exercise progresses across state commands.

It reaffirmed its commitment to deploying trained personnel and operational resources to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes, protect lives and property, and strengthen security nationwide. (Nigerian Tribune)