The Nigeria Police Force has initiated a monthly audit of arms and ammunition to address the alarming rise in firearms falling into the hands of hoodlums.
In a wireless directive issued from Force Headquarters, Abuja, and sent to state police commands nationwide, supervising officers were warned they would be held accountable for any missing firearms.
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The directive, obtained by SaharaReporters, highlights negligence, poor weapon handling, and insensitive deployment of personnel as key factors contributing to the loss of firearms.
“It has been observed with dismay, the disturbing incidents of avoidable loss of firearms to hoodlums. This has been found traceable to negligence on the part of the men, poor knowledge of weapon handling, and insensitive deployment of men by senior officers,” the memo stated.
The document further noted that officers, who should safeguard citizens, are becoming targets of attacks due to their lack of preparation and courage to repel sudden assaults.
The Force Headquarters has ordered state commands to implement aggressive training programs on musket and firearm handling. Supervising officers are now required to submit monthly returns of arms and ammunition, with reports due no later than the 23rd of each month.
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The police also emphasized the urgency of these measures, warning that further loss of firearms will not be tolerated. This move comes as the force grapples with rising concerns over insecurity and the proliferation of arms among criminal elements.
The Nigerian public awaits the outcome of this directive, hoping for enhanced accountability and improved security operations.