The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Alkali, has confirmed acquisition of three Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to boost security surveillance operations and checkmate criminal activities across the country.
The IGP described the development as a manifestation of the Federal government’s determination to deploy innovative technology in law enforcement duties of the police.
The newly-acquired drones, he said, will assist the police in monitoring active crime scenes, coordinating response operations, and providing armed aerial support to officers on reconnaissance operations.
The UAVs (rotary wing aircrafts) have capacity to fly up to an altitude of 1000ft with high operational endurance and capable of firing at acquired threats and targets from reasonable distances.
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), the Nigeria Police Air Wing has equally concluded trainings for the operators of the drones in partnership with foreign experts who have been consulted for trainings and maintenance of the drones.
The IG has directed the immediate and strategic deployment of these drones based on necessity, while noting that three more UAVs of the same specifications are still expected at the shortest possible time.
Reiterating the constant deployment and judicious use of the drones, the IG ordered total clamp down on non-state actors and criminals.
The police boss also warned criminal elements to steer clear and turn a new leaf, failing which he said the environment would be made inclement for them.
IGP Alkali stressed the determination to explore the use of technology in the fight against crime and criminality.
-Media Report