Lagos Police Deploy Over 5,000 Officers to Secure Christmas, New Year Celebrations

The Lagos State Police Command has put in place extensive security arrangements for the Christmas and New Year festivities, deploying thousands of officers across the state to curb crime, ensure smooth traffic flow and reduce the incidence of fatal road accidents during the holiday period.

In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP Olohundare Jimoh, ordered a large-scale deployment of personnel to safeguard lives and property before, during and after the celebrations.

The security operation includes conventional police officers, tactical units and intelligence operatives tasked with monitoring and neutralising individuals or groups that could pose a threat to public peace. Marine police officers have also been deployed to intensify patrols and surveillance along waterways to prevent criminal infiltration through aquatic routes.

Special squads have been strategically stationed across the state, while Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and heads of tactical units have been directed to boost patrols, maintain visible policing and ensure 24-hour surveillance in all areas. Officers on duty have been instructed to act professionally, courteously and firmly at all times.

To manage the expected increase in traffic during the festive season, the command disclosed that more than 5,000 police personnel have been assigned specifically to traffic control duties on major highways, inner roads and other congestion-prone areas.

As part of efforts to tackle the rise in fatal road accidents during the yuletide, CP Jimoh recently convened a strategic meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, and other security and safety agencies. The meeting, which involved officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Lagos State Fire Service and the Federal Controller of Works, focused on long-term measures to reduce accidents and improve public safety.

In addition, joint police teams made up of conventional officers, tactical squads, smart operatives and intelligence units have been deployed to clamp down on traffic robbers, miscreants, hoodlums and other criminal elements who may attempt to take advantage of the festive period.

The command said particular attention is being given to securing places of worship, recreational centres, nightclubs, markets, motor parks and other public spaces expected to experience heavy human traffic during the celebrations.

CP Jimoh assured residents and visitors of the police command’s firm commitment to protecting lives and property throughout the festive season and beyond. He urged the public to remain law-abiding and vigilant, and to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the command’s emergency lines: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264 and 08039344870.

The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its determination to ensure a safe, peaceful and crime-free Christmas and New Year across the state.

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