Defence Minister wants Police, NSCDC personnel deployed to liberated areas

From Raji Bello Sokoto

Minister of Defence General Manir Dan-Ali (rtd) has reiterated the need for the deployment of the Nigeria Police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps personnel in all areas liberated by the military in the North-East states.
He said the move would consolidate on the gains of military operations as well as to enable the military push forward in its clearance operations.
The Minister said this in a statement released by Colonel Tukur Gusau, the Public Relations Officer to the Minister.
He, however, congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on his recent election as the new ECOWAS Chairman.
Dan Ali reminded the council that the Armed Forces of Nigeria in collaboration with other security agencies are doing a lot to address the turbulent security situation in the country.
According to him, “In order to forestall future security incidences in Zamfara, Sokoto and Birnin-Gwari axis Operation SHARAN DAJI has been extended to cover up to the fringes of Niger boarder.
“The operation has recently been reinforced with more troops from the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police and Department of State Services and is supported by the Intelligence, Surveillance and Recognisance Wing of 207 Quick Response Group of the Nigerian Air Force.
“The joint operation has successfully arrested some suspected armed bandits and recovered arms and ammunition,” Dan Ali explained.
The statement further explained that security agencies have been directed to increase patrols along Abuja-Kaduna highway so as to checkmate the criminal activities along Abuja-Kaduna highway, along the axis to address cases of attacks and kidnappings.
“However, the Defence ministry had also review the Operation SAFE HAVEN leading to appointment of a new Commander in the North Central.”
The statement also informed that Operation DELTA SAFE has sustained its operations against illegal activities in the Niger Delta region with resultant reduction in illegal oil bunkering, militancy and pipeline vandalism.
“Meanwhile, in view of the engagement of troops in various internal security operations across the country, the Minister had requested for provision of more equipment for the Armed Forces in order to sustain the tempo in the fight against insurgency and other security challenges across the country,” It stated.