🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Former Army Chief Tukur Buratai questions claims of inability to locate bandits
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai rtd, a former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, has challenged the assertion that security agencies cannot locate bandits and kidnappers, despite these criminals openly sharing videos and communicating from their hideouts. Speaking on TVC, Buratai stated his belief that authorities possess the capability to track such individuals, questioning why they can locate ordinary citizens but not criminals who publicize their activities. While not directly criticizing security agencies, he suggested there might be underlying reasons for their operational decisions. Buratai emphasized the need to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture through continuous training, recruitment of more operatives, and improved welfare for security personnel, including better accommodation. He affirmed that the Nigerian armed forces have specialized units, such as the Nigerian Navy’s Special Boat Service and the Nigerian Army’s Special Forces, trained for high-risk hostage rescue and VIP protection missions. However, he acknowledged that operational decisions in kidnapping cases are often influenced by concerns for hostage safety and the risk of collateral damage. He also advocated for expanding the National Counter Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser, proposing the establishment of state branches equipped with advanced technology and operational facilities to enhance coordination among security agencies
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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