Nigeria's Police Force Marks Significant Strides in Crime Reduction and Officer Welfare
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun outlined significant accomplishments of the Nigeria Police Force in 2024 during an end-of-year conference with strategic police managers in Abuja on Tuesday.
“In the year under review, the Nigeria Police Force achieved major successes in tackling crime, leading to the arrest of 30,313 suspects for serious offenses, including kidnapping, cultism, murder, rape, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms,” IGP Egbetokun stated.
The IGP reported the recovery of 1,984 assorted firearms, 23,250 rounds of ammunition, and 1,438 stolen vehicles. Additionally, 1,581 kidnapped victims were rescued.
Egbetokun emphasized intensified efforts against kidnapping, citing a notable case from June 30, 2024, in Ogun State. “Despite being ambushed by gunfire, the police successfully rescued one Nigerian and three Indian nationals. Two kidnappers were neutralized during a subsequent raid,” he said.
The police chief also highlighted progress in cybercrime enforcement. “Detectives uncovered a major fraud operation, recovering N3.9 billion and arresting individuals involved in a multi-bank scam. In November, a coordinated raid led to the capture of 130 suspects, including 113 foreign nationals, tied to global cybercrime operations,” Egbetokun disclosed.
Addressing concerns about police welfare, the IGP reiterated that it remained a top priority. “The launch of the Nigeria Police Insurance Company aims to enhance officers’ insurance and welfare packages. Over N12 billion in insurance payouts have been distributed to 4,223 beneficiaries under the NPF Group Life Insurance Scheme,” he revealed.
Egbetokun expressed gratitude to officers for their dedication and assured continued vigilance in the coming year. “We are committed to ensuring robust security throughout the holiday season, with heightened measures to protect lives and property,” he concluded.
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