Acting Inspector-General of Police Usman Alkali has charged operatives of the force to deal ruthlessly with criminal elements and secessionists who attempt to test their will.
His charge comes amid a widespread breakdown of security in many parts of the country.
Yesterday in Enugu, the acting IG launched a special operation codenamed Operation Restore Peace (Operation RP) at the Michael Okpara Square in Enugu, the state capital.
Alkali said: “You are charged to be civil with the law-abiding citizens, but firm and ruthless with criminal elements and secessionists that may attempt to take the risk of testing your will or threatening the citizens within your area of jurisdiction.
“In furtherance to the goals of this special operation, I charge you to henceforth, defend yourselves courageously against any armed group that attempts to attack you, any police assets, and other critical national infrastructure.”
The IG advised the police officers and men on the special operation to see their deployment as a call to national duty.
