13 Police helicopters for Independence Day patrol

The Force headquarters has directed all police commands, formations and zones to step up security ahead of the Independence Day celebration on October 1.

It was learnt that the police would deploy 13 helicopters for aerial patrol nationwide, and that would be complemented with motorised patrols, sniffer dogs, intelligence operatives and undercover agents, to ensure a total security blanket for the nation.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Ojukwu, told SUNDAY PUNCH on Friday, that the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Suleiman Abba, had issued an order to all police commands, formations and zones to beef up security in their respective jurisdictions ahead of the celebration.

According to him, all dark spots, highways, critical public infrastructure, shopping malls, parks and gardens, as well as relaxation centres, would be given adequate security to enable Nigerians enjoy a hitch-free Independence anniversary.

Ojukwu explained that the IG had directed all zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Intelligence, Command Commissioners of Police and the Commissioners of Police in charge of the various police special squads, such as the Counter Terrorism Unit, Police Mobile Force and Special Protection Unit, to be on high alert to ensure effective and strategic deployment of all police personnel.

He said, “The Police High Command has directed all policemen nationwide to be on alert and to ensure full security coverage for Nigerians as we celebrate the independence on October 1.

“As part of strategies to secure the nation, 13 helicopters will be deployed for aerial patrol; motorised patrols would also comb every nook and cranny of our cities and this would be complemented with our sniffer dogs, the mounted personnel, intelligence operatives and the regular men.”

Asked if the military would be involved in the operation, Ojukwu said the police would work with other security agencies to ensure the safety and security of the citizenry at all times.