IGP deploys DIGs nationwide, orders joint patrols to tackle insecurity

By Kingsley Omonobi

Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has ordered the deployment of Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) to all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria as part of intensified efforts to strengthen security operations and close operational gaps across the country.

The directive was issued on Tuesday during the Monthly Strategic Conference with senior police officers held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Centre, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

Disu said the deployment, which takes effect from June 15, 2026, is aimed at improving supervision, coordination and accountability across police formations nationwide, while bringing leadership closer to field operations.

He also directed the immediate nationwide enforcement of regulations against vehicles without registration plates or those with concealed, defaced or altered number plates, warning that such practices would no longer be tolerated.

The IGP stressed that the rescue of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State remains an ongoing national security priority, noting that the Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are making progress in efforts to secure their safe return.

“We are making progress over efforts to rescue the abducted Oyo school children and teachers. The full operational capacity of the Nigeria Police Force, in coordination with other security agencies, is fully committed to securing their safe return,” he said.

Disu also highlighted operational gains recorded since the last strategic meeting, noting that 88 kidnapped victims were rescued, alongside multiple arrests across various crime categories.

According to him, 29 suspected murderers, 65 armed robbery suspects and 55 kidnapping suspects were arrested during the period under review.

He added that eight suspected terrorists were apprehended, while 42 cult-related suspects were arrested, with 114 firearms, 843 rounds of ammunition and 28 stolen vehicles recovered.

The IGP also disclosed a recent intelligence-led operation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where five suspected kidnappers were arrested before they could execute planned attacks in Abuja.

He described the operation as evidence of improved intelligence gathering and proactive policing strategies.

To further curb criminal activity, Disu ordered Commissioners of Police to establish coordinated “Handshake Patrols” between neighbouring states to prevent criminals from exploiting jurisdictional boundaries.

He also directed enhanced surveillance along major entry and exit routes, improved intelligence sharing, and joint operational responses where necessary.

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