How to tackle organised crimes — Buratai

A former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, says the ongoing battle against organised crime in Nigeria requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach from law enforcement agencies, government entities and the general public to protect the well-being and future of Nigeria.

He spoke in Abuja Tuesday at an international conference on ‘Organised Crime Network as Emergent Threats to National Security’, organised by the Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State and Buratai Center for Contemporary Security Affairs and other partnering agencies.

He noted that the alarming reality of ongoing criminal activities, ranging from the illicit theft of about 500 barrels of crude oil on a daily basis to the calculated displacement of communities for the purpose of mining minerals cannot be ignored and should be acted upon.

“These multifaceted crimes not only undermine the stability and well-being of affected regions but also perpetuate a cycle of violence and exploitation. 

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“These criminal enterprises not only rob our economy of legitimate growth and development but also inflict immeasurable harm on individuals and communities.

“Governments, international organizations, and law enforcement agencies collaborate to address these issues comprehensively. 

“By implementing stringent measures, conducting thorough investigations, and promoting sustainable development initiatives, we can strive towards creating a safer and more equitable world for all,” Buratai said.

Earlier, Vice Chancellor, Igbinedion University, Okada, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, said the insecurity in Nigeria was heightened by the growing convergence and proliferation of organised criminal activities and sources, banditry, terrorism, human and drug trafficking, kidnapping, among others which had put serious strains on the nation’s security.