.as Police launches “Op Flush” for Yuletide

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, presented 260 sophisticated security vehicles to Nigerian Police to boost existing security operations in the State.

The procurement of the security vehicles and gadgets, Sanwo-Olu disclosed was funded by the state Government and Local Governments.

Sanwo-Olu, also announced plans to deploy drone technology mechanism soon for security surveillance operations as well as traffic purposes across the state.

The governor made the presentation at the 18th Annual Town Hall Meeting on Security, held at Lagos House, Ikeja, organized by Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, themed: “Data and Technology-Driven Security: The: Way Forward.”

The security items presented include: Bullet proof vests, ballistic crash elements, patrol vans among others.

“Sanwo-Olu stated, “We have kept faith since 18 years unstoppable. Each year, we bring the Security Town Hall meeting to be responsive at all times.

“The Fund will put the Commissioner on the spot to give account. While this year’s own is unique is because it is the first time we having this number in the history of infrastructure handover.

“About three years ago, I invited the former President, Muhammadu Buhari for handing over but today we will be handing over 260 vehicles with security gadgets as a demonstration of our commitment.”

While charging the oil and gas companies to also key in to supporting the Security Trust Fund, Governor Sanwo-Olu said, the provision of security vehicles came from the state and local governments’ funding.

“Let it be that in oil and gas we are taking the lead and not just the banks. It is for all of us,” noting that the police should make judicious use of the infrastructure.”

In his remarks, Egbetokun said the handing over of such large number of vehicles has shown that Lagos continue to position itself as the centre of excellence.

“No wonder thousands of people migrate to the state everyday. The influx of people to the State has security implications. What we are doing here today won’t be possible without the assistance of the government, we would have been overwhelmed,” Egbetokun acknowledged.

“There was a time bank robbery was rampant in the State but since 20 07 till date bank robbery is gone in Lagos.”

He added, “Immediately, the police take over the assets, it is going to enhance operational capability of the police.”

The State Commissioner for Police, Olanrewaju Ishola disclosed that said, “Cases of murder and suicide regrettably were on the increase, sexual and domestic violence, unlawful possession of firearms also have an increase.”

From the report given by the CP, 15 kidnap cases were recorded while 71 kidnappers arrested and charged to court.

In the same vein, 337 among the armed robbery suspects arrested have been charged to court while 39 cult related cases were recorded, 270 cultists were arrested between 2023 till date.

Speaking on the security during the Yuletide, Ishola who noted that crime rate has reduced in the state in recent times, said, “The Ember months; September to December 2024 are expected to experience a steady rise in the commercial and social activities. Also, there may be possible increase in crime rate within these periods.

“However, the Command has re-strategized and put in place measures including “Operation Flush” to curb criminal activities and ensure security of lives and property of all residents in the State.

“Adequate manpower have been deployed for traffic control duties at the areas notorious for traffic gridlock. Also, robbery in traffic by hoodlums will not be left out.”

Also speaking on the challenges confronting the command, he said, “One of the challenges is inadequate Patrol vehicles. Though, the Command acknowledge Mr, Governor, LSSTF, both Federal and State lawmakers, councils and other individuals for their supports.”

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of LSSTF, Dr Abdurrazaq Balogun said, “Despite widespread security concerns, Lagos continues to thrive, experiencing robust infrastructure development and fostering daily events with minimal events.”

Balogun disclosed over N1.896 billion was expended on routine service, refurbishments, including engine replacements, equipment procurement and other services for the RRS, Police Command, Marine Police and other security agencies in 2024.

He however stated, “We still have a long journey ahead, and the challenges continue to evolve as technology, costs and associated expenses increase.”