The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, has acquired three high-powered unmanned aerial vehicles for improved armed surveillance operations.

The UAVs, he said, would help checkmate criminal activities in the country.

According to Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force spokesperson, the IGP’s determination to integrate the use of technology in the Nigeria Police Force’s law enforcement duties necessitated the procurement of drones.

He added that the IGP had ordered the deployment of these drones based on necessity, stating that three more UAVs are expected.

The statement partly read, “The newly acquired drones will surely assist the police in monitoring active crime scenes, coordinating response operations, and providing armed aerial support to officers on reconnaissance operations.

“The three newly acquired UAVs are rotary-wing aircraft capable of flying up to an altitude of 1,000 feet with high operational endurance and the capacity to fire at acquired threats and targets from reasonable distances. The Nigeria Police Air wing has equally concluded training for the operators of the drones in partnership with foreign experts who have been consulted for training and maintenance of the drones.

“The IGP has directed the immediate and strategic deployment of these drones based on necessity while noting that three more UAVs of the exact specifications are still expected in the shortest possible time.”

While reiterating the constant deployment and judicious use of drones,  he further noted, “the IGP ordered a total clampdown on non-state actors and criminals in Nigeria and similarly warned criminal elements across the country to steer clear and turn a new leaf, otherwise the environment would not be conducive for them.”