The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a shoot-on-sight directive against individuals found carrying illegal firearms, as security agencies intensify efforts to curb violent crime and restore peace across the country.

Disu announced the directive on Friday during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Makurdi, Benue State, saying the order aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to end the persistent insecurity in the state.

He stated that only authorised security personnel are legally permitted to bear arms, warning that anyone carrying firearms unlawfully would be treated as a threat.

The police chief explained that under Force Order 237, officers are empowered to respond immediately to armed threats without waiting for instructions from superior officers. He added that the guideline allows trained officers to use force when necessary to protect lives and maintain public safety.

Disu said the police could no longer continue losing officers and other security personnel to attacks by armed criminals, stressing that decisive action was necessary to address the security challenges.

He also urged residents to support security agencies by providing credible and timely information, noting that public cooperation remains vital to the fight against crime.

Benue State has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups in recent months, resulting in deaths, displacement of communities and destruction of property.

The Federal Government has continued to reinforce security operations in the state through the deployment of additional personnel and other measures aimed at restoring lasting peace.