Developing accountable security institutions

Assessing the roles of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in controlling the trend of kidnapping in Anambra, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the roles of the NPF in controlling kidnapping trend in Anambra State. Using mixed-method research design, a sample of 394 respondents was selected through the proportionate sampling technique. A researcher-developed questionnaire was used to gather the quantitative data which was complemented by data obtained through In-Depth Interview (IDI) conducted with selected stakeholders in the study area. Quantitative data collected were analysed descriptively using frequency counts and percentages; while the qualitative data were analysed by method of manual content analysis. Findings of the study showed among others, that the police played varying roles in controlling kidnapping in Anambra State. The most significant among such roles included: educating the public on security consciousness through the media and mounting check points in various communities. It was equally found through the views of the respondents that the roles performed by the police have the capacity of sustaining the current control level on kidnapping trend in Anambra Anambra State. It was recommended that there be the need to improve the current partnership between NPF and members of the public to allow successful grass-root policing at the lowest community level where most kidnappings occur, and to introduce the proactive policing approach which focuses on the application of latest technological tools in crimes detection and control.