I-G inaugurates 51 patrol vehicles, 66 Mopol Squadron in Shendam, Plateau.
By Peter Amine
The Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris has conducted a ground breaking for the newly established 66 Mobile Police Force (MPF) Squadron in Longvel, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Idris also inaugaurated 51 security patrol vehicles acquired by Plateau Government for distribution to security agencies in the 17 local government areas of the state.
He said that the establishment of the squadron would increase and improve the existing security infrastructure in the state for the purpose of providing adequate security.
“The establishment of PMF 66 Squadron in Shendam is therefore one of my strategies to ensure that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is at all times within reach and to promptly respond to the challenges of crime being faced by the people.
“The establishment of PMF 66 in Shendam is not by accident but a deliberate attempt to fight crime.
“Shendam town is densely populated and shares boundary with three states namely Bauchi, Nasarawa and Taraba.
“This feature makes the town prone to criminal activities like herdsmen/farmers clashes, armed robberies and other criminal activities,” he said.
The I-G said that PMF was established as a strike force of the NPF and always deployed to troubled spots across the country.
He said that he would ensure the establishment of the PMF in other parts of the country but ensure that adequate and befitting barracks are provided.
Idris called on state governments to doante lands for the establishment of more PMF squadrons and construction of PMF barracks.
The I-G appreciated Gov. Simon Lalong for donating 51 security patrol vehicles to the 17 local governments.
He said that Lalong was one out of many governors that was passionate about securing his state.
Gov Lalong in his remarks stated the establishment of squadron was a dream come true for his people.
The governor appreciated the I-G and President Muhammadu Buhari for granting them their wish.
He said that the 51 patrol vehicles was donated by the state government in collaboration with the local governments to boost security.
Lalong regretted the recent attacks in Bassa and Bokkos LGAs where countless people were killed, saying that it bestowed on the state and councils more responsibilities in protecting the people.
He enjoined traditional rulers to work closely with security agencies in their areas to better secure the people.
Alhaji Dayyabu Garga, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs said that with the squadron and patrol vehicles Plateau would be better secured.
