The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has officially launched nationwide clearance operations targeting bandits, kidnappers, and other violent criminal syndicates.
Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, announced the sweeping security initiative in Abuja on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. The extensive crackdown follows the recent specialized training and retraining of Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel.
Specifically, the tactical initiative aims to dismantle criminal hideouts, restrict gang movements, and restore robust public safety across vulnerable communities.
Consequently, heightened police deployments are expected to sweep through identified security flashpoints and forested corridors nationwide.
Police Launch Nationwide Clearance Operations Following Pilot Exercise in Nasarawa
The comprehensive nationwide campaign follows an initial pilot sweep conducted at Alagye Village in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
During the Nasarawa operation, tactical teams and intelligence units combed suspected kidnappers’ hideouts following actionable intelligence reports.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu charged all participating operatives to maintain intense pressure on criminal networks.
Furthermore, the IGP emphasized that the ongoing operations will remain strictly intelligence-led, prioritizing tactical professionalism and the rule of law.
In addition, commanders have been instructed to respect human rights while aggressively dismantling active camps utilized by outlaws.
Public Cooperation and Tactical Deployment Across State Commands
The police high command has urged members of the public to cooperate fully with deployed security operatives.
Citizens were also encouraged to provide credible, timely information to support law enforcement efforts in their respective localities.
Meanwhile, tactical units and anti-kidnapping squads have been placed on red alert across multiple state commands to expand the scope of the campaign.
Therefore, security analysts anticipate increased patrols and checkpoints along major highways and rural boundaries as the sweep progresses.
Finally, the Force assured Nigerians that periodic progress updates regarding the nationwide clearance operations will be released as the exercise unfolds
