Kidnapping, banditry: IG revives MOPOL to join battle
The Nigeria Police Force has moved to strengthen its response to kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes with the revival and repositioning of the Mobile Police Force, popularly known as MOPOL.
The initiative, according to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, is aimed at restoring the operational capacity of the force’s mobile units and deploying them more effectively against high risk criminal activities across the country.
The move is part of renewed efforts by the police authorities to improve the Force’s capacity to confront the growing security challenges confronting the nation, particularly kidnapping, banditry and other forms of violent crime.
Under the new arrangement, personnel of the Police Mobile Force are being retrained and equipped to undertake specialised and high risk security operations. The retraining is expected to improve their tactical capabilities and prepare them for operations in difficult and volatile environments.
The Inspector General said the police would intensify their role in the fight against criminal elements, stressing the need for a more proactive and coordinated approach to national security.
The revival of MOPOL is expected to provide additional operational support for police commands and other security agencies engaged in efforts to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace in troubled areas.
The development also signals a renewed emphasis on the use of specialised police units in tackling security threats, with the Force seeking to deploy personnel with the skills and equipment required for complex operations.
The police leadership has continued to emphasise improved training, better equipment and enhanced operational readiness as critical components of its strategy to address insecurity.
The renewed focus on MOPOL comes amid continuing concerns over kidnapping and banditry in parts of the country, with security agencies under pressure to intensify efforts to protect lives and property.
The police authorities said the repositioning of the unit would strengthen the Force’s contribution to the broader national security effort and improve its ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats.