In a bid to curb the rising wave of kidnappings in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has declared a robust approach against bandits, making it clear that his administration will create an unbearable environment for their operations.
During a town hall meeting in Bwari with the area council chairman, royal fathers, and residents, Wike revealed that President Bola Tinubu had directed him and all service chiefs to employ all necessary means to end the menace of kidnappings and killings in Bwari and other FCT areas.
Wike emphasized that President Tinubu has approved the provision of essential tools and logistics for security operatives, leaving no room for excuses.
He assured residents of impending significant changes in the security situation within the next few days, urging them to support security forces in their duties. The minister cautioned against discussing bandit operations on radio or social media, as it could fuel their activities.
The recent kidnapping of six sisters from Zuma 1 in Bwari on January 5, with a demand for N600 million ransom, sparked public outrage. The police authorities have vowed to secure the release of the victims.
Simultaneously, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun launched a ‘Special Intervention Squad’ to combat kidnappings in the FCT.
The specially trained mobile police officers will provide rapid response to security breaches and engage in extensive community policing.
Egbetokun assured Nigerians that similar squads would be established in neighboring states to address the broader issue of insecurity.
The IGP’s move comes in the wake of the abduction of six siblings and their father in Bwari, where one sister was reportedly killed due to the inability to pay a N60 million ransom.
President Tinubu condemned the spate of kidnappings and bandit attacks nationwide, promising swift action by security agencies and the rollout of resources, policies, and plans for the extensive education of Nigerian youths.