In a remarkable feat of law enforcement, the Nigerian Police Force has announced the arrest of an astounding 30,313 suspects and the successful rescue of 1,581 kidnap victims in 2024 alone. This revelation was shared by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, via the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of Nigerian Stories, underscoring the force’s relentless commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of citizens across the nation.
In his statement, the Inspector-General highlighted the achievements as evidence of the police force’s dedication to tackling the escalating security challenges in the country. According to Egbetokun, these milestones reflect the effectiveness of strategic operations, intelligence-led policing, and community collaboration.
The arrests include suspects involved in various heinous crimes such as armed robbery, murder, cybercrimes, and terrorism. Meanwhile, the 1,581 kidnap victims rescued during the year represent a significant victory in the fight against the deeply entrenched kidnapping menace in Nigeria.
“Each operation, though challenging, reflects our unwavering resolve to restore peace and order to every corner of the nation,” Egbetokun stated, praising the efforts of police officers who risk their lives daily to protect Nigerians.
The Inspector-General also used the opportunity to assure Nigerians of ongoing reforms within the police force aimed at enhancing accountability, operational efficiency, and respect for human rights. He emphasized that technology and modern policing techniques have played a pivotal role in achieving these results, with plans to deepen these efforts in the coming months.
While celebrating the achievements, Egbetokun acknowledged that more work needs to be done to build trust between the police and the public. He urged citizens to continue cooperating with law enforcement agencies by providing timely information and avoiding actions that could jeopardize ongoing investigations or operations.
The Inspector-General concluded by calling on the government and relevant stakeholders to provide further support to the police force through funding, training, and equipment. “A safe and secure Nigeria is achievable, but it requires the collective effort of all citizens,” he added.
As the year draws to a close, the Nigerian Police Force remains resolute in its mission to dismantle criminal networks and make Nigeria a safer place for all. With these numbers as proof of progress, Nigerians may find a glimmer of hope in the midst of ongoing security challenges.