Deputy Inspector-General of Police Zachariah Fera Achinyan, who heads the Force Intelligence Department, has voiced strong assurance regarding the Nigeria Police Force’s capacity to manage criminal activities countrywide. He emphasized that security threats will not overpower the force, despite the various operational hurdles they face.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement and consultative gathering at the Bauchi State Police Command Headquarters, as part of a security evaluation tour of the North-East region, Achinyan acknowledged that police continue to contend with logistical and operational limitations. However, he stressed that officers stay dedicated to safeguarding lives and property and possess the professional expertise to counter changing security risks.
He noted that criminals have grown more advanced, especially with the surge in cyber-related offenses, but maintained that the force is adjusting its approaches to address new difficulties. Achinyan pointed out that lasting success in fighting crime will largely hinge on collaboration from citizens, traditional leaders, religious figures, and community organizations.
“Security cannot be achieved by the police alone. Communities must partner with law enforcement through information sharing and active involvement in crime prevention initiatives,” he stated.
Achinyan explained that his visit to Bauchi followed a directive from Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at engaging stakeholders across the North-East, evaluating security issues, and bolstering police-public cooperation. He also underscored the importance of officers maintaining professionalism and operating within legal boundaries, noting that public confidence is vital for effective policing.
Earlier, Bauchi State Commissioner of Police CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu outlined several challenges facing the command, including insufficient operational vehicles, a shortage of arms and ammunition, inadequate surveillance tools, and limited mobility in rough terrain. Despite these drawbacks, he reported notable progress in recent months due to intelligence-driven operations and assistance from other security agencies.
Aliyu revealed that police had investigated 294 suspects for various crimes over the past six months and secured 28 convictions during that timeframe. He added that security personnel recovered multiple firearms, vehicles, and motorcycles linked to criminal activities, and rescued 29 kidnap victims during operations across the state.
The police commissioner identified banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling, armed robbery, and youth-related violence as the primary security threats in Bauchi State. He called for increased government funding in security infrastructure and equipment. Attendees at the meeting applauded the efforts of security agencies and pledged ongoing support to enhance security throughout the state.