Police Deploy Armoured Patrol Vehicles To Curb Rising Insecurity
By Prosper Okoye
For years, armed groups have exploited speed, mobility and surprise to terrorise communities across Nigeria. The police say they are ready to fight back with stronger tools.
Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Friday unveiled 59 armoured Toyota Hilux patrol vehicles in Abuja, describing them as a “direct message” to those threatening law and order.
“The police now have stronger tools to match determination with capacity. Criminal groups will no longer enjoy the advantage of mobility or surprise,” he said.
The vehicles are designed for rapid deployment across difficult terrain and are built for high-risk operations and armoured to withstand hostile fire.
The IGP warned commanders against misuse, stressing the assets must not be diverted for personal use or left idle.
“The vehicles will provide the shield, but our officers must provide the integrity. Every operation must be lawful, proportionate and decisive,” he added.
Senator Karimi Sunday Steve hailed the move as a milestone under the government’s renewed hope agenda, noting the vehicles’ B6 protection level would help personnel counter ambushes.
Deputy Inspector General of Police, Bzigu Kwazi, said the assets would be distributed nationwide to boost mobility in tackling kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes.
Nigeria continues to grapple with armed banditry, insurgency and kidnappings, but police authorities say this marks a shift from reactive to proactive operations in restoring public safety.