The inspector-General of Police, IGP M.A Adamu has ordered the immediate nationwide deployment of anti-riot police unit known as the Police Mobile Force (PMF).
A statement issued by the force’s public relations officer Frank Mba revealed that the deployment was meant to ensure the protection of lives and properties of Nigerians, as well as to secure critical national infrastructure across the country.
It also revealed that the police boss has ordered the massive deployment of operatives to strengthen security around Correctional facilities nationwide.
The deployments are coming on the heels of increasing attacks on human lives, arson and “malicious damage to public and private facilities recorded in some states of the Federation including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)”.
Consequently, commissioners of police in 36 states and the FCT have been tasked on identifying and isolating law-breakers from peaceful protesters.
They have also been directed to facilitate the immediate arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of violence in their respective Commands.
The statement further revealed that no fewer than 12 suspects have been arrested in connection with the recent arson and attacks on Police Stations in Edo, Benin States.
According to the statement, Five (5) AK47 rifles earlier stolen from vandalized Police Stations have also been recovered.
It further reiterated calls made by the force to parents and guardians on the need to ensure that their children/wards stay clear of acts of violence, stressing that the Force will henceforth deploy full powers in preventing any further attempt on lives and property of citizens.
