Police officers | File photo
Ajao Adewale, commissioner of police for the federal capital territory (FCT) command, has ordered the deployment of anti-explosive teams ahead of Eld-el-Kabir and June 12 celebrations.
A statement on Monday by Josephine Adeh, FCT police spokesperson, said Adewale convened a “strategic” security meeting with all six area commanders, divisional police officers (DPOs), and heads of tactical teams under the command.
Adewale called on all commanders to strengthen security within their respective areas of responsibility (AORs) and ensure heightened visibility policing.
He said this should be done particularly at all strategic entry and exit points into the city, in anticipation of the arrival of very senior police officers and other dignitaries from across the country for the inspector-general of police (IGP) honours and award night.
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“The Commissioner of Police gave the following operational directives aimed at ensuring public safety and fostering public trust: Deployment of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams to sweep worship and recreational centres ahead of expected gatherings, Sustained intelligence-led raids on identified black spots known for illicit drug activities, to be conducted professionally and without abuse, Zero tolerance for extortion in any form; officers must be smartly dressed, disciplined, and courteous in their interactions with the public,” the statement reads.
“Officers are strictly warned against involvement in civil disputes, particularly land-related matters. Continuous raids must not serve as a cover for harassment or illegal financial demands. Reinforcement of the standing order that bail is free; any officer found requesting money for bail will be dealt with in accordance with established disciplinary procedures.
“DPOs are to ensure strict supervision and accountability of all personnel under their command. Searching of mobile phones without appropriate legal authority is prohibited. All officers are expected to be camera-friendly, approachable, and uphold the image of the Force. Response to distress calls must be swift and efficient, with a Command-wide target response time of under 10 minutes.”
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The police commissioner ordered the crackdown on vehicles bearing fake or “fraudulently acquired” diplomatic number plates.
He also directed all DPOs to initiate youth engagement programmes and foster close collaboration with local communities to promote community policing and crime prevention.
