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The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu, has called for stiffer laws against kidnapping, banditry and other heinous crimes, including possible seizure of questionable assets and proceeds.
This, he believes, would act as a strong disincentive to potential kidnappers and other violent criminals.
Addressing a delegation of the Nasarawa State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), led by Alhaji Aminu Muazu Maifata, during a Sallah visit to him yesterday in Abuja, the IGP stated that the appeal had become imperative against the backdrop of the increasingly daring nature of the criminal elements in the society.
Adamu apprise his visitors of the feats recorded so far by “Operation Puff Adder” in the ongoing fight against criminality nationwide.
He stated that since its launch on April 5, 2019, the team had rescued 63 kidnap victims.
The police chief added: “In a similar vein, 2,175 suspects were arrested for the following offences: kidnapping – 852; armed robbery – 865; murder –359; and cultism – 99.”
He disclosed that 834 arms, including two rocket launchers, 19,009 live ammunition, were also recovered, with 9,500 of the munitions coming from Oyo State alone.
Adamu stated that the force was reviewing strategy to proactively intercept and mop up unauthorised weapons in circulation
According to him, a good number of cases are being prosecuted in courts across the federation, while several others are at investigation level.
Commending his men for a good job, the IGP maintained that the ‘mind-boggling’ arrests and arms recoveries were a testament to the efficiency of the rescue team, and more importantly, the unwavering support the police and other security agencies enjoy from Nigerians.