Security agencies can track bandits if they want to – Buratai

Former Chief of Army Staff and ex-Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (rtd), has stated that Nigerian security agencies possess the technological capacity to track down bandits and kidnappers operating openly across the country.

Buratai, speaking during an interview on TVC on Monday, said he found it hard to believe that security agencies are unable to locate criminal groups who publicize their activities on social media. 

He questioned why authorities can locate ordinary citizens or social media influencers but not the criminals who share videos and communicate from their hideouts.

“I don’t think they failed to locate. If they can locate ordinary citizens or social media influencers, I don’t believe they can locate these bandits that flaunt their loot or whatever activities they do,” he said.

While stopping short of directly criticizing the agencies, Buratai suggested operational decisions may explain the apparent lack of action. 

He emphasized that Nigeria’s security architecture must be strengthened through continuous training, recruitment, and improved welfare for personnel. 

“There must be capacity building of all the security agencies, and continuously,” he said, adding that more operatives and policemen are needed.

Buratai also highlighted that Nigeria’s military possesses specialized units capable of conducting high-risk rescue operations, citing the Navy’s Special Boat Service and the Army’s Special Forces. However, he noted that concerns over hostage safety and the risk of collateral damage often influence operational choices.

In a bid to strengthen counter-terrorism, Buratai called for the expansion of the National Counter Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser, including the creation of state branches equipped with advanced technology and operational facilities for better coordination among security agencies.

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