The state command said in a statement on Wednesday that the move was aimed at safeguarding lives and property before, during and after the festive period.
The Lagos State Police Command has announced the deployment of a massive security apparatus across the state to ensure a peaceful Christmas and New Year celebration, following directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The state command said in a statement on Wednesday that the move was aimed at safeguarding lives and property before, during and after the festive period.
The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.
“In total compliance with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, the Command has deployed adequate personnel and resources across Lagos State to guarantee a safe and secure festive season for residents and visitors,” the Commissioner, Moshood Jimoh stated.
According to the police, the deployment includes conventional police officers, tactical units, intelligence operatives and marine officers, who will intensify patrols on land and waterways to prevent criminal infiltration through river routes.
Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and heads of tactical units have also been directed to strengthen visibility policing and maintain round-the-clock surveillance across the state.
“All deployed officers have been charged to remain professional, courteous but firm in the discharge of their duties,” the Commissioner added.
To address traffic congestion and ensure the free flow of vehicles during the festive rush, the Command disclosed that over 5000 police personnel have been assigned to traffic duties on major highways, inner roads and identified traffic-prone areas.
The Command further announced the deployment of joint police teams made up of conventional officers, tactical squads, smart operatives and intelligence units to crack down on traffic robbers, hoodlums and other criminal elements who may attempt to exploit the festive period.
Special attention, the police said, is being given to places of worship, recreational centres, nightclubs, markets, motor parks and other public spaces expected to witness increased human traffic.