Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has instructed officers nationwide to take firm action against criminals found with illegal firearms. He emphasized that officers should not hesitate to neutralize armed threats while performing their duties.
This directive was made during a meeting with senior police officers where the new police chief laid out his plans to reinforce internal security and enhance the fight against violent crime across the country.
Disu stated that criminals carrying illegal firearms who pose an immediate threat to citizens or security personnel should be dealt with decisively, in line with the law and the Nigeria Police Force’s Rules of Engagement.
He highlighted that the police have a constitutional duty to protect lives and property and should prevent armed criminals from jeopardizing the safety of innocent Nigerians.
Disu also directed all state police commands and tactical units to ramp up intelligence gathering, retrieve illegal weapons, dismantle criminal organizations, and intensify operations against kidnappers, armed robbers, cultists, terrorists, and bandits.
The police chief noted that while officers must be assertive in confronting violent criminals, they are also expected to maintain professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights in all operations.
He cautioned that any officer found misusing the directive or infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens would face disciplinary actions according to the law.
Disu further urged Nigerians to assist the police by providing timely and credible intelligence about individuals possessing illegal firearms and engaging in criminal activities, promising that all information would remain confidential.
Security analysts suggest that the directive highlights the new police leadership’s commitment to addressing rising insecurity through proactive policing and stricter enforcement against illegal weapons.
The renewed effort coincides with nation’s ongoing security operations aimed at reducing kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes endangering public safety in several regions.
The Nigeria Police Force affirmed its dedication to protecting lives and property while ensuring all operations comply with the Constitution, the Nigeria Police Act, and other relevant laws.
