We can’t end kidnapping without residents’ co-operation –Police.

   The police have said it may be difficult to absolutely put an end to kidnapping if people do not avail the security agencies of relevant information, noting that information is crucial to curbing any crime.

    The new Divisional Police Officer of Ibafo Police Station in Ogun State, Obiora Okonkwo, who is a Chief Superintendent of Police, stated this during a courtesy visit to the corporate headquarters of PUNCH Nigeria Limited on Wednesday, said kidnappers are members of the society who have neighbours and come across people, even in the line of their activities.

   Okonkwo said, “Kidnapping is now very rampant in the country, and without information, our activities may be slowed down.

“We are human beings, not magicians. That is why we say members of the public should supply us with information, and that is why people need to be aware of what is happening in their neighbourhood, such that they can make reports when they notice untoward activities.

    “Now, we have warned hoteliers that their guests must identify themselves properly before being offered accommodation. They can even search the person’s luggage and if they suspect anybody, they should alert the police.

“Kidnappers are human beings like us. If we have information, we would move in and foil whatever plans they have.”

   While answering questions from members of PUNCH security committee, led by the Executive Director, Business Development and New Projects, Mrs. Olubunmi Aboderin-Talabi, the DPO said even though logistics could sometimes deter policemen from responding to emergency calls swiftly, people should still play their part by contacting the police as soon as they discover something unpleasant in their neighbourhood.

   He said it was also for this reason that he had been having meetings with residents associations, landlords and community heads to sensitise them on the issue.

   He added that as part of efforts to rid the Nigeria Police Force of some “bad eggs,” people should not hesitate to report any act of extortion, harassment, intimidation and other unlawful behaviour of policemen to the appropriate authorities, noting that victims’ silence would help such persons to remain in uniform.

   He said, “We have said it repeatedly that bail is free, but till date, people still succumb to demands by some policemen when they could have asked for the DPO to report such persons.

In my own station, my phone number is on the wall. It is only after paying that people start complaining or murmuring. So, please, bail is free.”