Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has said that Nigerian security agencies possess the technological capability to locate and track bandits and kidnappers operating across the country.
Speaking during an interview on TVC, Buratai expressed doubts that security agencies are unable to trace criminal groups that openly share videos and publicize their activities on social media. He argued that if authorities can track ordinary citizens and social media influencers, they should also be able to identify the locations of bandits and other criminal elements.
The retired army chief, however, stopped short of directly criticizing the agencies, suggesting that operational considerations may influence the decisions taken by security authorities.
Buratai called for continuous capacity building within the nation’s security architecture through regular training, recruitment of more personnel, and improved welfare for security operatives. He stressed the need to strengthen all security agencies to effectively address the country’s security challenges.
He also highlighted the existence of specialized military units capable of carrying out high-risk rescue operations, noting that concerns over the safety of hostages and the possibility of collateral damage often affect operational choices.
As part of efforts to enhance counter-terrorism operations, Buratai urged the expansion of the National Counter Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser, including the establishment of state-level branches equipped with advanced technology and operational facilities to improve coordination among security agencies.
