By Adesakin Adefemi
Former Chief of Army Staff and ex-Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (rtd), has said Nigerian security agencies possess the technological capability to locate bandits and kidnappers operating openly across the country.
Speaking during an interview on TVC on Monday, Buratai expressed disbelief that authorities are unable to track criminal groups that openly publicize their activities on social media. He compared the situation to the ease with which ordinary citizens and social media influencers can be located.
“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,” Buratai said.
The former Army Chief stopped short of directly criticizing the security agencies. Instead, he suggested that operational decisions may explain why some criminal groups remain active despite their public presence online.
Buratai stressed that strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture requires continuous capacity building. He called for improved training, more recruitment, and better welfare for security personnel to enhance operational effectiveness.
“There must be capacity building of all the security agencies, and continuously,” he said. He added that the country needs more operatives and policemen to improve coverage and response times in affected areas.
The retired General also noted that Nigeria’s military has specialized units trained for high-risk rescue operations. He cited the Navy’s Special Boat Service and the Army’s Special Forces as examples of units with the capability to handle hostage situations.
However, Buratai acknowledged that concerns over the safety of hostages and the risk of collateral damage often influence how and when security forces launch operations against bandits and kidnappers.
To improve coordination in the fight against terrorism and banditry, Buratai called for the expansion of the National Counter Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser.
He proposed creating state branches equipped with advanced technology and operational facilities to enhance collaboration among security agencies.
