The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun says his officers have arrested and detained 10,852 persons across the country over various crimes in the last three months.
The IGP made this known on Tuesday at a meeting with officers from the rank of Commissioner and above, listing the crimes to include kidnapping, banditry and armed robbery.
“The arrests and detention were carried out between July and September. Within the period, a total of 416 arms, 3,672 ammunition, 178 vehicles were recovered, while 369 kidnapped victims were rescued,” he explained.
The IGP said that there had been a substantial decrease in crime rates in key areas, including banditry, kidnapping, armed robbery and cybercrime.
Egbetokun also spoke on the preparations for the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State, and declared that the security outfit was ready for the exercise.
“As we prepare for the upcoming Ondo State off-cycle gubernatorial election, I urge all involved to replicate, and build upon, the successes recorded in Edo.
“We must ensure a robust security architecture; officers on duty must perform their duties diligently and with utmost professionalism.
“Our mission is to provide a secured environment where voters can freely exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation,” he said.
The I-G pledged continued collaboration with other security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission and other stakeholders toward safety of lives and property before, during, and after the election.
According to him, patrols would be increased along with other measures to ensure the security of lives and property throughout the ’ember months.
