Lagos, Feb 18 (IANS) The police in Nigeria embarked on intensive recovery of fire arms in the possession of unauthorised security outfits across the country ahead of the country’s general elections in March, Inspector-General of Police Suleiman Abba said in a statement.
The police chief Tuesday said he has ordered state Commissioners of Police to carry out the operations, noting that the police must equally ensure that suspects are arrested in connection with it are given speedy prosecution at law courts, Xinhua reported.
He said the action is in view of reported cases of political violence emanating from illegal use of fire arms by these unlawful outfits.
According to Abba, the directive is aimed at keeping violence and other criminals at bay, as 2015 general elections draw nearer and to further ensure a safe ground is guaranteed for a peaceful poll.
The police chief advised the political stake holders to play the game by the rules, as all measures put in place to ensure a free, fair and credible election will be implemented to the letter.