The deputy inspector-general of police, Mohammed Abdul, has directed operatives in Kaduna to sustain offensive operations against bandits and other criminal elements.

Mr Abdul gave the directive on Tuesday during a visit to the police command in Kaduna. He conveyed a message from the IG, Olatunji Disu, commending officers for recent operational successes and urging them to intensify the offensive against criminal gangs.

The DIG said the force would no longer rely solely on reactive policing but would strengthen intelligence-led and technology-driven strategies to prevent crime.

“We must remain focused and stay on the offensive. When bandits and other criminals know we have the firepower, they will think twice before striking. We should keep pushing hard, stay sharp, and sustain the momentum,” said Mr Disu.

The DIG described Kaduna as a strategic state whose location makes it vulnerable to sophisticated criminal networks. Mr Abdul stressed the need to deny bandits the opportunity to operate freely across state boundaries.

He directed commanders to fully implement the ‘Handshake Patrol’ initiative to promote joint operations and intelligence sharing among neighbouring states.

“Criminal elements must no longer commit atrocities in Kaduna and retreat comfortably across state borders. We must maintain proactive cross-border security collaboration with contiguous commands,” he said.

Mr Abdul outlined six policy priorities of the IGP, including intelligence-led policing, accountability and respect for human rights, community policing, inter-agency collaboration, operational specialisation, and improved welfare for personnel.

According to him, the force is strengthening intelligence gathering through technology, improving community engagement, and enhancing collaboration with the military, the State Security Service and other security agencies to tackle insecurity.

(NAN)