Hyacinth Chinweuba
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem Odumosu, has disclosed that the State Police Command has arrested 164 armed robbery suspects and successfully foiled 98 armed robbery attempts, while 13 armed robbery suspects died during exchange of fire with the Police.
According to him, 165 suspects were arrested for cultism while 4 suspects were arrested for kidnapping and 103 suspects were arrested for murder.
He stated further that the State recorded 10 cases of suicide and prevented 7 suicide attempts even as 34 assorted firearms with lots of ammunition were recovered as exhibits.
The feat he said was achieved in the last 119 days since he assumed office.
Giving account of his stewardship, he said the Command recorded the achievements through mobilization of a more courageous, dedicated, humane and professional police officers in the State.
Odumosu, said the Command has initiated its 2020 Policing plans which includes: Full implementation of Community based policing policies of the present police authorities, evolving strategies that will close the gaps between the police and the people, foster cordial relationship and build strong and effective partnerships; Visibility policing and prompt response to distress calls; Intelligence led policing approach, professional and unbiased investigation of criminal cases and diligent prosecution.
Others are, Respect for and protection of human rights and zero tolerance for corruption; Multi agencies collaboration; Capacity building for Officers and Men of the Command and enhanced welfare package.
“I am bold to say that our policing strategies are yielding positive results. Within the last 119 days, the Command arrested 164 armed robbery suspects and successfully foiled 98 armed robbery attempts. 13 armed robbery suspects died during exchange of fire with the Police.
165 suspects were arrested for cultism. 4 suspects were arrested for kidnapping and 103 suspects were arrested for murder. The state recorded 10 cases of suicide and prevented 7 suicide attempts. 34 assorted firearms with lots of ammunition of different calibre were recovered.
The Command also recovered 22 stolen vehicles.” he disclosed.
Odumosu said, “On the enforcement of restriction of motorcycles and tricycles on 48 routes, bridges and express ways, I made bold to declare that a total of 3,512 motorcycles and 202 tricycles were impounded since the commencement of the enforcement and 40 suspects were arrested.
Twenty five traffic offenders, mostly those driving against traffic (one way) were arrested and successfully prosecuted. A number of intelligence driven raids were carried out on criminal hideouts, uncompleted and abandoned buildings in different parts of the State.
A total of 981 suspects were arrested. Out of this number, 190 were screened out, 791 were charged to Court. 723 suspects were convicted, 25 suspects were discharged, 21 suspects had their cases struck out, and 22 suspects are awaiting trial.”