The Nasarawa State Police Command has launched a major security operation to raid and clear forests across the state of bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements.
Addressing officers on Tuesday in Lafia prior to launching the operation in the Alagye Forest in Doma Local Government Area, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Shetima Mohammed, stated that the exercise was ordered directly by the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu.
Mohammed explained that the special operation aims to flush out criminal elements from their forest hideouts and restore lasting peace and security across Nasarawa State.
To execute the clearance mission, the command has deployed tactical squads, anti-kidnapping units, and intelligence personnel to identified security flashpoints. The CP noted that the operation will run continuously through the end of December and directed officers to adhere strictly to professional standards and rules of engagement.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, the state has been divided into three distinct operational sectors:
Sector A (Lafia Zone): Led by ACP Lamidu Alkali, Squadron Commander of Mopol 58, Lafia.
Sector B (Akwanga Zone): Led by ACP Kadir Umar, Squadron Commander of Mopol 38, Akwanga.
Sector C (Keffi Zone): Led by ACP Olobekga Saligo, Squadron Commander of Mopol 69, Toto.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Mr. Sanusi Jidda, is overseeing overall coordination across all three sectors.
Leading the initial raid into the Alagye Forest, DCP Jidda revealed that credible intelligence confirmed bandits and kidnappers were using the area as an operational base. He disclosed that over six units of heavily armed personnel have been deployed to dismantle the camps, with operations expanding into forested areas within Akwanga and Toto LGAs.
“We will not spare any criminal or their hideout. We have commenced aggressive raids on all known and suspected criminal camps,” Jidda asserted.
CP Mohammed urged the public to assist the police by providing timely and confidential intelligence, while reassuring residents to go about their daily routines without fear as security forces work to protect lives and property.
