Police arrest 35,496 suspects, secure 16,200 convictions in one year

The Nigeria Police Force on Thursday said that it has arrested 35,496 suspects involved in various crimes across Nigeria in one year.

Just as it also announced the successful conviction of 16,200, highlighting these achievements as part of its effort to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force.

Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector General of the Police, while speaking at a conference with senior police officers in Abuja, underscored the Force’s commitment to tackling crime and improving public safety over the past twelve months.

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Egbetokun took stock of the Nigeria Police Force’s accomplishments and challenges during his tenure as the 22nd Indigenous Inspector-General of Police.

He said: “Over the past twelve months, the Force confronted significant challenges such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery”.

Despite these challenges, Egbetokun praised the resilience and dedication of officers, highlighting achievements in capacity building, service enhancements, and improved relationships with sister services and the public.

Key achievements under his administration included the arrest of 35,496 suspects, the rescue of 1,907 kidnapped victims, and substantial recoveries including 2,750 firearms, 22,569 ammunition, and 1,540 vehicles nationwide.

The Legal/Prosecutions Section successfully prosecuted 29,052 criminal cases, securing 16,200 convictions.

He also noted the disbursement of ₦9.85 billion under the Group Life Assurance Scheme and the IGP Family Welfare Scheme to families of deceased officers.

Additionally, April 7 was declared National Police Day by President Bola Tinubu marking a significant recognition of the Force’s contributions.

The IGP also inaugurated the first Police Commendation and Awards Ceremony and promoted 33,867 officers based on merit and competence.

Infrastructure development projects such as the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, the National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC), and various training facilities were also advanced during this period.

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Looking ahead, the conference also focused on preparations for the upcoming gubernatorial elections in Edo and Ondo States.

IGP Egbetokun outlined security plans to support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in ensuring free and fair elections.

He expressed gratitude to Tinubu for his support and reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to serving the nation with integrity and dedication.

He assured the public of ongoing efforts towards creating a safer and more secure Nigeria through collaborative efforts.