IGP Deploys Armed Operatives As Abuja-Kaduna Train Resumes

The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba has ordered the deployment of armed personnel to safeguard the Abuja-Kaduna rail service route from Monday, December 5

This was contained in a statement on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi.

The IGP said the operatives would be drawn from the police mobile force, K-9, force intelligence bureau, explosive ordinance unit and railway police command. the operatives would be drawn from the police mobile force, K-9, force intelligence bureau, explosive ordinance unit and railway police command.

It could be recalled that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) suspended train service along the route after Boko Haram terrorists attacked a moving passenger train in Kaduna on March 28, 2022.

The insurgents had blown up the rail track and bombed the moving train, killing some and abducting more than 60 passengers. The unprecedented attack attracted international and national outrage.

The terrorists, who attacked the train in Kaduna, released hostages piecemeal with the last release being on October 5, 2022.

"The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has been in regular talks with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and other security agencies in preparation for the commencement of operations, the statement read.

“The deployment covers major railway stations along the route and operational coaches to provide adequate security for passengers, their property and the entire service in order to prevent any unforeseen incidence.”

"The IGP, therefore, assures the general public, especially intending passengers, of adequate protection of lives and property, as all hands are on deck to fortify the railway services along the route and other rail lines across the country."