Bauchi Police Raise Alarm Over Manpower, Arms Shortages

The Bauchi State Police Command has identified inadequate manpower, as well as shortages of arms and ammunition, as key factors hindering its ability to effectively combat crime across the state.

The commissioner of police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, made this known on Thursday while receiving the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 12, Vungmoh Kwaimo, during an official visit to the command headquarters.

Aliyu noted that, despite the operational challenges, the command has continued to record notable achievements, sustaining Bauchi’s standing as one of the most peaceful states in the country.

He, however, stressed that the limited number of personnel has constrained deployment efforts and slowed response times to emerging security threats.

“At this point, it is pertinent to intimate the Assistant Inspector-General of Police on a few pressing concerns affecting the command’s operational capabilities. The shortage of manpower is affecting deployment and our ability to respond swiftly, particularly in the light of increasing security threats across the state,” he said.

The commissioner further pointed out the need for additional personnel to support rapid response operations at the Zone 12 headquarters, alongside a broader reinforcement of the command’s workforce.

He also underscored the urgent requirement for more arms and ammunition to strengthen ongoing operations against criminal elements.

In his response, Kwaimo expressed satisfaction with the command’s performance, applauding the commissioner and officers for their commitment and professionalism.

The AIG acknowledged the concerns raised and assured that they would be communicated to the relevant authorities for prompt attention.

“This is my first visit since assuming office on January 6, 2026. It reaffirms our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property, while upholding human rights and the rule of law,” he said.

Kwaimo emphasised that discipline, accountability, and professionalism must remain the cornerstone of policing, cautioning officers against actions that could undermine the integrity of the force.

He also highlighted the critical role of community engagement, intelligence-driven policing, and the integration of technology in addressing contemporary security challenges.

“We will examine the challenges highlighted by the Commissioner of Police, particularly the issues of manpower shortages and other operational constraints, and do our best to address them,” he added.

The AIG reiterated the police’s core mandate of safeguarding lives and property with honour and integrity, assuring residents of continued efforts to bolster security across the state.