The Kano State Police Command has completed a month-long combat and firearms handling programme for 200 officers. This was done as part of efforts to strengthen security operations across the state.
According to The Punch, the officers passed out on Monday during a ceremony. The event was held at the No. 9 Police Mobile Force Squadron in Hotoro, Kano.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Bakori said the programme equipped the participants with modern tactical and policing skills. These skills are required to address emerging security challenges.
Bakori was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Audu Sabo. He said the command organised the training in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
“For one month, 200 of our officers have undergone intensive training in combat readiness, weapon handling and modern policing ethics at No. 9 PMF, Hotoro, and No. 52 PMF, Challawa,” he said.
The officers received practical and theoretical lessons in firearms handling, tactical manoeuvres, and intelligence-led policing. In addition, they learnt community policing, public relations and human rights.
Bakori said the command would continue training more officers to improve their professionalism. This will also improve their ability to respond effectively to criminal activities.
“Capacity building is not an event; it is a process. It must be continuous if we must win the battle against crime and earn the trust of the people,” he said.
The commissioner urged the graduating officers to remain disciplined and respect the rights of citizens while carrying out their duties.
“Our approach is simple: be hard on crime and soft on the people. We must remain combat-ready to confront criminals while respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens,” he added.
Earlier, the Commanding Officer of the No. 9 Police Mobile Force Squadron, Hotoro, ACP Afeez Oyekan, said instructors subjected the participants to rigorous training in marksmanship, modern firearms handling, and combat tactics. They were also trained in tactical manoeuvres.
He added that the programme also covered crowd control, intelligence gathering, police-public relations and community policing. Furthermore, it included human rights and the Force’s social media policy.
“A good police officer must be professionally mindful of his firearm at all times, exercise good judgment and discharge his duties with the fear of God,” Oyekan said.
He advised the officers to apply their newly acquired skills responsibly. They should also avoid actions capable of damaging public confidence in the police.
The passing-out ceremony featured combat demonstrations. It also included the presentation of certificates and awards to participants who distinguished themselves during the training.
The command recognised Corporal Aminu Ahmed, Police Constable Umar Idris, Corporal Nasiru Ubale and Police Constable Ismail Abubakar, among others, for their performances in shooting. They were also recognised for firearms stripping and assembly, and other categories.
