No fewer than 10,852 suspects were arrested between July and October 2024, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has disclosed.
Also, a total of 416 arms, 3,672 ammunition 178 vehicles were equally recovered while 369 kidnapped citizens were rescued.
Egbetokun made the disclosure during a meeting with Commissioners of Police and other senior officers in Abuja.
According to him, recent statistics indicate a substantial decrease in crime rates in key areas, including significant strides in combating violent crimes such as banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery, and cybercrime.
“From July to October this year, the Nigeria Police Force successfully rescued 369 kidnapped victims, recovered 416 firearms of various makes, retrieved 178 vehicles, and seized 3,672 rounds of ammunition of different calibres. Additionally, a total of 10,852 suspects were arrested across the country.” He said.
Egbetokun said the police were adequately prepararing for the Ondo governorship election.
He said, “As we prepare for the upcoming Ondo State off-cycle gubernatorial election, I urge all involved to replicate and build upon the successes recorded in the Edo State election.
“We must ensure a robust security architecture and that officers perform their duties with impartiality and the highest professionalism. Our mission is to provide a secure environment where voters can freely exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
“We will continue to collaborate with other security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission, and stakeholders to ensure that the Ondo State election is conducted freely, fairly, and credibly, empowering all voters to exercise their rights without any fear of intimidation.”
He also said patrols would be increased and other measures would be put in place to ensure the security of lives and properties throughout the ember months.
Egbetokun said, ”As we continue with the Ember Month, a time traditionally associated with heightened security challenges, the imperative for vigilance, enhanced flexibility, and proactive policing becomes even more critical.
“Criminal elements frequently exploit this season, necessitating our strategic foresight to stay ahead. Our approach should include increased patrols and intelligence-driven and community-oriented operations to ensure public safety throughout the holiday period.
“It is crucial that we intensify our efforts to secure all areas, particularly urban and semi-urban centres, major highways, and to collaborate effectively with other security agencies and stakeholders to bolster security nationwide.”