The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) will deploy gunboats to riverine areas, creeks, waterways from Lagos to Delta and down to Cross River States.
The deployment of the gunboats is aimed at tackling the problems of insecurity on the waterways, especially in South West Nigeria.
Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris made the pledge on Wednesday during his visit to Lagos.
Idris who addressed stakeholders and police officers in Lagos, said his administration was determined to tackle violent crimes such as kidnapping, menace of cattle herdsmen and insurgency.
He said the police management was synergising with other security agencies to fight crime, and added that the problem of insurgency and vandalism started from minor cult activities in local communities.
“I believe in policing at the community. Together, we can discuss and find common solutions to problems not just of security but to safety. The protection of the elderly, the young and vulnerable in our society.
“I believe constant and regular interaction and dialogue with the people will lead to greater accountability, openness and transparency in the conduct of police activities. Therefore, my approach will involve consultation, cooperation and multi-agency collaboration.
“It bears reiteration that police are also members of the community who are paid to pay full time attention to the duties that are incumbent on every member of the community.
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“My approach therefore, is aimed at giving reality to the historic proposition that the police are the community and the community is the police.
“We cannot afford to watch our children become victims of drug peddlers, we must protect our children from every exploitation and this is not just the responsibility of the police, but of every member of the society.
“I call on you to come together either as individuals or as community development associations and work with your police.
“I will encourage you to use all means available to you to bring topical issues to our attention. In these days of social media and online platforms, you can reach the police via Facebook, Whatsapp, Twitter, and SMS.
“I have already directed all Divisional Police Officers to make available their phone numbers and those of their subordinates’ to members of the public.
“I urge you to work with the police to adopt a problem solving approach to local communal issues, partner the police in deciding local policing priorities and ensure respect for and protection of fundamental human rights.”
The acting IGP added that he is ready to partner the Lagos State Command in tackling the problem of insecurity in the state if Mr. Fatai Owoseni, the Commissioner of Police is ready to follow his directives to the letter.
Credit: Today
