By Kingsley Omonobi

As the yuletide celebrations approach, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of police operatives to strategic locations and identified hotspots across the country.

The directive aims to curb traffic and highway robberies as well as other criminal activities often associated with the festive season.

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this on Thursday, noting that the measure is designed to ensure the safety of lives and property during the period.

In his statement, Adejobi said: “The IGP has directed the immediate deployment of adequate personnel to strategic locations, key areas, and identified hotspots across all states. This initiative aims to curb traffic, highway robberies, and other criminal activities during this period of increased mobility, public gatherings, and celebrations.”

Adejobi added that while the police remain committed to ensuring public safety, significant progress has been made in combating criminal activities.

“Security operatives will be positioned to deter crimes through increased police presence and visibility on major highways and roads prone to criminal activities, particularly highway robberies, which tend to spike during festive seasons,” he said.

Highlighting recent successes, Adejobi revealed that: On December 10, 2024, police operatives in Lagos State arrested four suspected robbers—Akeem Alabi, Adewale Sogbesan, Emmanuel Izeagbe, and Francis Okoko—who confessed to being part of a robbery syndicate operating in the Costain area.

On December 6, 2024, police operatives in Anambra State apprehended a suspected armed robber, Miracle Mwakaloi, in Awka. A search of his apartment uncovered three AK-47 rifles.

Adejobi assured Nigerians of a safe festive season: “The force remains committed to providing a secure environment during and beyond the Yuletide season. Citizens are encouraged to stay vigilant and report all suspicious activities to the police and other law enforcement agencies.”

The Inspector-General further emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and security agencies, ensuring a crime-free celebration for all.