By Damilare Adeleye

IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police, has ordered the expansion of the activities of the NPF National Cybercrime Centre (NCCC) to the existing Force Criminal Investigations Department Annex offices to enhance the handling of matters related to the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act 2024.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, said the NCCC will now have operational offices at the FCID Annex offices in Lagos, Kaduna, Gombe, and Enugu States.

The Police spokesperson added that the development followed the recent upsurge in the creation and circulation of misinformative and dis-informative materials and other cyber-related crimes, capable of causing a breakdown of law and order and attempting to discredit the country, using the various social media platforms.

“It has become expedient to take proactive and strategic steps to nip this trend in the bud in order to prevent damage to the peaceful coexistence of well-meaning citizens and residents of our great country.

“To this end, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has ordered the expansion of the activities of the NPF National Cybercrime Centre (NCCC) to the existing Force Criminal Investigations Department Annex offices to facilitate the efficient handling of matters related to the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act 2024. Consequently, the NCCC will now have operational offices at the FCID Annex offices in Lagos, Kaduna, Gombe, and Enugu States. This will help in professionally coordinating and monitoring smooth investigations of cyber-related infractions reported to the police.

“The Inspector-General of Police therefore reiterates that the expansion of the Centre will significantly enhance the NPF’s ability to combat cybercrime, enabling prompt and coordinated responses to cyber threats across the nation. He reassures the public of the NPF’s steadfast commitment to securing digital spaces and ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians,” Adejobi said.