INSECURITY: Nigeria’s Police boss acquires, deploys 3 armed drones to strategic locations
*Orders total clamp down on non-state actors, criminals
By KEMI KASUMU and ABIRHIRE THOMAS
In his quest to strengthen security of lives and properties in line with the resolve of President Muhammadu Buhari’s promise to Nigerians, the the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, has acquired three high-powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for improved armed surveillance operations to checkmate criminal activities in the country.
This, according to a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, with Ref No. CZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.4/195 dated November 9, 2022 and copy of which was sent to The DEFENDER on Wednesday, is as a further manifestation of the IGP’s determination to integrate the use of innovative technology in the law enforcement duties of the Nigeria Police Force.
“The newly acquired drones will surely assist the Police in monitoring active crime scenes, coordinating response operations, and providing armed aerial support to officers on reconnaissance operations.
“The 3 newly acquired UAVs are rotary wing aircrafts capable of flying up to an altitude of 1000ft with high operational endurance and capacity of firing at acquired threats and targets from reasonable distances. The Nigeria Police Airwing has equally concluded trainings for the operators of the drones in partnership with foreign experts who have been consulted for trainings and maintenance of the drones,” the Force PRO said.
IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc(+), NPM, NEAPS, fdc, CFR, in furtherance to the development, directed the immediate and strategic deployment of the drones based on necessity, while noting that three more UAVs of the same specifications were still expected at the shortest possible time.
The IGP, while reiterating the constant deployment and judicious use of the drones, ordered total clamp down on non state actors and criminals in Nigeria, and similarly warned criminal elements across the country to steer clear and turn a new leaf else the environment would not be conducive for them, and they may meet their waterloo soonest.
“The Inspector-General of Police has further re-emphasized the firm determination of his administration to continue to explore the use of technology in the fight against crime and criminality while seeking full cooperation from members of the public on intelligence gathering and vigilance,” the statement said.
