The Nigeria Police has deployed a special squad to arrest the rising violence across the country.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, gave the order during a meeting with Squadron Commanders in Abuja on Tuesday, as bandits struck in Kwara, Benue and Sokoto States, killing 21 persons.
The directive ordered all Police Mobile Force squadrons to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on constant standby, effective immediately.
In the past weeks, the attacks on hapless citizens have escalated with increased attacks reported in Plateau, Benue, Enugu and other parts of the country.
Speaking during the meeting, the IG stressed that the standby units must be prepared to provide rapid support to state commands in times of crisis, high-risk operations, or emergency interventions.
Egbetokun said the squadrons will undergo size reviews and reorganisation to boost efficiency and agility.
Reaffirming the withdrawal of mobile policemen from escort duties, the IG noted with concern that this has drained the PMF’s tactical effectiveness.
The IG added that new strategic approaches and continuous capacity-building initiatives will be initiated to return the PMF to its rightful place as a dominant force in internal security and a model of tactical excellence.
The police boss also declared that indiscipline among the mobile police officers will no longer be tolerated.