By: Adeosun Ewatomi
National Security: Special Intervention Squad (SIS), its Significance and Potential in IGP Egbetokun's Reinvigorated Policing Strategy
The progress of a nation's advancement in all domains is interconnected and often directly proportional to the efficacy of its security framework. Many academics consider security not just as the absence of conflict but as the overall welfare of a nation's populace. This comprehensive outlook aligns with the principles and concept of the "New Security Agenda," which encompasses human security, environmental security, economic security, and political security – all interlinked and collectively contributing to a country's overall resilience and stability.
Globally, security is vital for development. Nigeria has played a significant role in global security affairs, particularly in Africa, due to its vast landmass, large population, and abundant natural resources. However, Nigeria has confronted substantial security hurdles over time, stemming from various factors related to its human, material, and natural assets. These challenges have kept the country's institutions and agencies vigilant, consistently striving to offer timely solutions.
McNamara (1968) once stated, "Security is not military hardware, though it may include it; security is not a military force, though it may involve it; security is not a conventional military activity, though it may encompass it. Security is development, and without development, there can be no security."
The significance and mandate of an operational police institution, such as the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), cannot be fully understood without the country undergoing rapid economic rejuvenation, social cohesion, and overall progress. The link between national development and an efficient policing system is crucial. This can be achieved through a police force that is adept, service-oriented, compliant with the rule of law, and community-centric – principles embodied in the IGP's vision statement.
This analogy underscores the necessity to evaluate, reassess, and align with the New Security Agenda, leading the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, upon assuming office as the 22nd indigenous IGP, to establish a special unit to bolster the existing security framework of the Force. This initiative aims to combat crimes like kidnapping, banditry, and other unlawful activities afflicting various regions in Nigeria. The Special Intervention Squad (SIS), a core element of the IGP’s administration, was inaugurated in Jos, Plateau State, on 29th December 2023. This followed the IGP's on-site evaluation of the devastation caused by armed bandits who attacked Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas on Christmas Eve, 24th December 2024, resulting in over 200 fatalities and significant property damage. The actions of the SIS in Plateau State have led to the apprehension of suspects directly implicated in the assault, who have confessed to their crimes. The IGP also directed the deployment of the supervisory Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 4 Headquarters (comprising Nasarawa, Plateau, and Benue States) to Plateau State to oversee the Squad's operations and ensure optimal utilization of available resources to make the state inhospitable for criminal elements and restore order.
To realize his vision, the astute IGP launched the Special Intervention Squad for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on 17th January 2024, under the supervision of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Ede Ayuba Ekpeji. The Squad promptly initiated operations in the FCT and its surroundings. The IGP emphasized the need to curb the influx of armed criminals into the FCT, especially in bordering communities linking states like Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue, and Kogi. Thanks to the Squad's intervention, these threats are being actively addressed.
The Intervention Team, led by CP Benneth Igweh, mni (as he then was), carried out operations in areas known for terrorist and bandit activities, such as Kawu, Kuchikau, Bwari, Nigerian Law School, Veritas University, Claretian Missionary Seminary, Zuma I, Zuma II, and Iguh. Additionally, they expanded operations to Tafa, Gauraka, and Garam in Niger State and border regions in Kaduna State.
On 18th January 2024, during a covert operation, the squad intercepted a grey Toyota Hilux van carrying four passengers, including the driver. The kidnappers opened fire upon spotting the police, but the squad's superior firepower enabled the rescue of Segun Akinyemi, who was being transported from Abuja to Kano. One Chinaza Philip from Life Camp, Abuja, was apprehended, and the squad seized two G17 model pistols, one Beretta pistol, ten 9mm P.A.K rounds of ammunition, and five 9mm special rounds. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing gang members who escaped in a white Mercedes Benz.
In collaboration with the Force Intelligence Department - Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT), the FCT Command Anti-Violent Crimes Section, Anti-kidnapping Section, neighboring state commands, and the Nigerian Army, the SIS executed a meticulous rescue mission that culminated in the successful retrieval of victims abducted on 2nd January 2024 in the Zuma 1 Area of Bwari Area Council. The victims were located in Kajuru Forest, Kaduna State, on 20th January 2024 and reunited with their families.
Furthermore, the SIS has rescued four other kidnapping victims within the FCT. Suleiman Sabo was rescued in Sauka along Airport Road, and his kidnapper, Muhammed Abel, was apprehended with an MK1 rifle and live ammunition. Two victims abducted from the residence of Barr. Cyprian Adikwu at Army Post Service Housing Estate, Phase 2 Extension, Hilltop Kurudu on 18th January 2024, and Gideon Nanjul abducted on 19th January 2024 were rescued on 20th January 2024 after extensive efforts by police operatives, vigilante groups, and hunters in Kurudu and Azhata Village, reuniting them with their families.
On 20th January 2024, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Tafa Division, Kaduna State, acting on credible intelligence, led a patrol team to Easy Way Hotel, where they arrested Bello Muhammed, aged 28, from Zamfara State, in possession of N2,025,000 (Two Million, twenty-five thousand Naira) in cash. Upon interrogation, he confessed to being a kidnapper, with photos found on his phone showing him holding an AK-47 rifle in the bush.
It is vital to underline that the Special Intervention Squad has been pivotal in various operations nationwide, including neutralizing eight (8) Eastern Security Network (ESN) terrorists in Owerri, Imo State, on 1st August 2024, rescuing twenty (20) kidnapped individuals on 14th September 2024, and neutralizing two armed robbers while recovering two AK47 rifles in Mangu LGA, Plateau State. The Squad has significantly contributed to reducing crime nationwide and participated in several collaborative operations in various states.
The SIS has also played a crucial role in ensuring election security in Edo State and recovering arms and ammunition in the FCT, Niger, and Kaduna States in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser. These achievements underscore the Squad's effectiveness and the indispensable nature of its activities.
Nigeria's adoption of the New Security Agenda is not merely a decision but a necessity for its stability, progress, and the welfare of its citizens. The interconnected nature of security challenges requires an integrated, intelligence-focused approach, which the IGP is championing to revitalize the NPF and reestablish its primacy in internal security. The fight against insecurity is a collective obligation, and the establishment of the SIS marks a significant stride toward realizing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria.
The journey towards a more secure Nigeria demands sustained commitment, collaboration among security agencies, and unity in combating crime. As Nigeria navigates intricate global dynamics, our new security agenda must reflect a dedication to adaptability, cooperation, and foresight. The road ahead is arduous, but with resolve and concerted effort, Nigeria will surmount these challenges and secure a safer and more prosperous future for its citizens and the world at large.
Nigeria is embarking on a new security paradigm to confront these intricate challenges, necessitating bold measures like the formation of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) by the IGP. The primary mission of the SIS is to directly engage with criminals, completely purging them from the FCT and its vicinity. Similar operations will be launched in other states across Nigeria. The fight against insecurity in Nigeria is a shared responsibility.
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