Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has announced major security operations across Nigeria, leading to hundreds of arrests and rescued kidnap victims.
The police recorded 611 arrests involving suspected bandits, terrorists, armed robbers, murder suspects, kidnappers and cultists within one month.
Disu also cancelled leave for officers involved in election security duties. He warned that police officers must earn public trust through their actions.
Speaking during his monthly meeting with senior police officers, the IGP disclosed the operational results.
According to him, the police arrested 218 suspected bandits and terrorists, alongside 85 suspected armed robbers. Another 129 people were arrested over alleged murder and culpable homicide.
The operation also led to the arrest of 59 suspected kidnappers and 120 suspected cultists.
Disu further revealed that officers rescued 95 kidnapped victims during the period. They also recovered 306 firearms, 630 rounds of ammunition and 116 stolen vehicles.
The police chief directed commissioners in affected states to submit verified banditry hotspots and threat reports within 72 hours.
He also ordered additional personnel, vehicles and air support for areas facing serious security threats.
Disu stressed the importance of intelligence from local communities. He directed officers to work with traditional rulers, village heads, hunters and vigilante groups.
“The people know who the bandits are. We must give them the confidence to tell us,” he said.
The IGP also warned officers against using their positions to support political parties or candidates ahead of the next elections.
He insisted that the police must remain neutral and protect every eligible voter.
“I want to be clear: the Nigerian people did not elect any of us. We wear this uniform to protect them, and their confidence in us is not an entitlement. It is something we must earn every day through visible action. The bandits do not rest. Neither shall we…”
Disu directed commissioners and senior officers to remain in their commands until the electoral process ends. He also ordered daily security reports to Force Headquarters.
Meanwhile, he paid tribute to fallen police officers and directed that their outstanding death benefits be paid without delay.
