By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Lokoja
The newly posted Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) for Zone 8, Betty Enempem Isokan, has vowed to intensify the fight against crime in Kogi and Kwara states, warning criminals to either abandon their activities or face the full weight of the law.
Speaking with journalists on Thursday after officially assuming office at the Zone 8 Police Headquarters in Lokoja, Isokan, the first female AIG to head the zone and the 31st occupant of the office, said there would be no hiding place for criminals operating within the two states.
She disclosed that security agencies had identified major crime flashpoints and would build on existing security strategies to dismantle criminal networks and restore public confidence.
“If you are law-abiding, these states are safe for you. But if you are determined to continue in crime, we will pursue you and ensure you face justice,” she warned.
The AIG stressed that her administration would not introduce an entirely new policing framework but would strengthen and improve the existing security architecture through closer collaboration with sister security agencies.
According to her, the command will also implement the Inspector-General of Police’s Safe Schools Initiative to enhance surveillance around schools and prevent attacks by bandits and other criminal elements.
She appealed to residents of Kogi and Kwara to support the police with credible and timely information, while urging officers and men under the zone to sustain the current momentum in the fight against crime.
Meanwhile, the Kogi State Police Command honoured about 35 officers for exceptional performance in various operations across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, said the award recipients distinguished themselves in anti-banditry operations, rescue of kidnapped victims, arrests of notorious criminals, dismantling of kidnapping and human trafficking syndicates, and prosecution of sexual and gender-based violence cases.
“These achievements are the product of discipline, teamwork, professionalism, sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to service,” Kankarofi said.
He urged the awardees to regard the recognition as a motivation to remain committed to excellence and professionalism in future operations.
