IGP Deploys Tactical Forces, Drones, Helicopters to Troubled Plateau Communities Amid Rising Attacks

April 9, 2025 — Abuja, Nigeria — In a decisive move to quell the ongoing violence in Plateau State, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical police units and high-tech surveillance equipment to Bokkos Local Government Area and surrounding regions.

According to a statement released Wednesday morning by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the deployment is a direct response to the wave of deadly attacks that began on March 28, and have since claimed dozens of lives, leaving several communities in shock and mourning.

High-Level Tactical Response

Leading the intervention is Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Kwazhi Yakubu, who is coordinating a multi-pronged response featuring:

Highly trained tactical personnel
Drones for aerial surveillance
Armoured Personnel Carriers
Police Mobile Force units
Helicopters
Special Intervention Squad platoons

“These resources will be strategically deployed to conduct special operations aimed at effectively curbing the incessant attacks,” the statement read.

Attacks Spark Widespread Fear

The violence reportedly began with a brutal attack on March 28 in Bokkos, which has since escalated into a series of targeted killings. Eyewitness reports and local leaders have described the situation as “genocidal and orchestrated”, prompting urgent calls for federal intervention.

IGP’s Directives: Suppression and Prevention

DIG Kwazhi, who arrived in Plateau State on April 8, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang to convey the IGP’s condolences and reaffirm the Force’s commitment to peace.

During the meeting, both parties reportedly assessed the root causes of the violence and began discussing long-term strategies for restoring calm.

“The IGP has directed a multi-faceted approach, focusing not only on suppressing the ongoing violence but also on proactively preventing future attacks,” the police statement said.

Community Collaboration Vital

The Nigeria Police Force is urging residents to cooperate, by providing timely and relevant information that could aid investigations.

The IGP reiterated the Force’s commitment to working closely with the state government, traditional rulers, and civil society to return Plateau State to peace.