In response to the controversy surrounding the recruitment of approximately fifty “repentant thugs” into the Kano State Police Force, the Police Service Commission (PSC) has issued a statement to clarify their purpose and role.
The PSC emphasized that these individuals were enlisted as police constabulary to combat crime in various areas of Kano State.
The decision to recruit these “repentant criminals” had raised questions among Nigerians, who wondered about the wisdom in such a move.
The spokesperson of the Commission, Ikechukwu Ani, explained that these individuals had chosen to turn away from a life of crime and recognized that it didn’t lead to a fruitful future.
As part of their recruitment, they received proper training in the country’s policing system.
Ani stated, “It is necessary to state that the men and women recruited as special constabulary are posted to work in their locality where they will be in a better position to identify and combat criminals who are causing trouble in the area.”
These special constabulary members are not classified as regular police officers, and they are not officially recognized by the Commission and the government.
However, their operations are supported by the Police Act and are seen as a valuable addition in the ongoing fight against crime across the country.
The Chairman of the Commission, Solomon Arase, emphasized the importance of a citizen-based approach to security, stating, “Security is not solely the government’s responsibility; it is a collective duty that every Nigerian should contribute to.”
The PSC said it remains in close coordination with the Kano State Police Command to ensure the effective use of the constabulary in the quest for a crime-free Kano State.
