The commissioner of police in Nasarawa, Shetima Mohammed, has ordered the immediate review of manpower deployment and tactical operations to enhance efficiency and professionalism within the command.

Mr Mohammed issued the directive on Friday in Lafia during the monthly officers’ conference, attended by area commanders, squadron commanders, divisional police officers, and department heads.

He stated that the directive aligned with concerns raised by the inspector-general of police, Olatunji Disu, regarding the wastage of personnel and the proliferation of tactical teams.

The commissioner directed that tactical units be streamlined, properly coordinated and deployed strictly for operational efficiency and maximum impact.

He also frowned at the duplication of investigations by different formations, describing the practice as unprofessional and capable of eroding public confidence.

“Henceforth, jurisdiction must be respected, and duplication of investigations must cease,” he said.

Mr Mohammed warned officers against involvement in civil matters, particularly land disputes, stressing that police personnel must not be deployed to guard private property.

“The police force is not an agent for private interests in land matters. Any officer found engaging in such acts will face disciplinary measures,” he said.

The CP further directed full compliance with the withdrawal of police personnel from unauthorised VIP protection duties, ordering the deputy commissioner of police in charge of operations to ensure enforcement.

On arms and ammunition, Mr Mohammed ordered a comprehensive audit of all weapons within the command, directing all formations to conduct checks of their armouries and submit detailed reports.

He stressed that accountability in arms management was non-negotiable, adding that only properly trained and certified personnel should handle firearms.

The commissioner also cautioned officers to act professionally, given the growing ease of garnishee proceedings against personnel, noting that misconduct could have legal and financial consequences.

On suspects’ rights, Mr Mohammed emphasised that bail should be granted in accordance with the law and warned that deaths in police custody would not be tolerated.

“Officers must adhere strictly to human rights standards and extant regulations,” he said.

He also directed officers posted to training institutions to proceed without delay, describing training and capacity building as critical to effective policing.

The CP urged officers to ensure proper handling and restraint of suspects to prevent escape while respecting their rights.

Mr Mohammed stressed the need for prompt communication, directing that situation reports on serious incidents must be followed up with immediate phone calls to appropriate authorities.

He further ordered sustained raids on criminal hideouts and flashpoints across the state, urging commanders to be proactive in denying criminals a haven.

The commissioner also warned against violation of the Nigeria Police Force social media policy, cautioning officers against indiscriminate posting of operational and official information.

On the forthcoming National Police Day, Mr Mohammed said that the command had lined up activities including a sanitation exercise and medical outreach at the Yahaya Sabo Motor Park, Bukan Sidi Lafia; a walkathon from the Command Headquarters on Shendam Road to the Lafia Stadium and back; community sensitisation programmes; and presentation of cheques to families of deceased officers.

He said that the activities would culminate in a grand finale featuring a ceremonial parade and tactical display in Abuja.

Mr Mohammed called on residents to partner with the police in building safer communities.

He urged officers to rededicate themselves to duty and uphold the core values of the Nigeria Police Force. 

(NAN)