CP redeploys officers as robbers write community

Following a threat by suspected robbers, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Imohimi Edgal, is to redeploy officers and men at the Igando Police Division, with a view to beefing up security.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Igando, Egan, Akesan and Obadore residents have been under attacks by armed robbers, who recently wrote a letter, informing them to prepare for them.

During a visit to the community on Monday, Edgal said that a new Divisional Police Officer (DPO) would take over immediately and that policemen who had spent up to three years in the community would be transferred.

“I have called this emergency meeting because of my style of policing, which is community policing and safety partnership. I believe that we have a security problem and we can solve it together.

“It has come to my notice that the good people of this community are being troubled by hoodlums. I am here to put in place measures to counter them.

“I know the DPO here has been working hard, but he will be given more responsibilities as I am here with a new DPO who will be briefed and charged with the responsibility of working with you.

“The new DPO will also send me the list of all policemen in Igando, and I will make sure that those that have spent up to three years will be transferred.”

Edgal said that there was the need to identify the hideouts of the hoodlums.

“Before I leave here, the traditional ruler or the local government chairman must provide us a place to station the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad.

“Two brand new patrol vehicles and four serviceable communication sets for emergency and coordination will be deployed. There will also be six additional pin-down points.

“Anybody caught carrying firearms in the night in this area will be arrested. I have told my men to use their firearms on anyone that wants to test the power of the police; so be warned,” he said.

Some members of the community hailed Edgal for the decisions and hoped that it would check armed robbery in the community. (NAN)