NATCOM ORIENTATION/AWARENESS SECURITY TRAINING 2024

 


 

 

FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

(NATCOM)NATIONAL COMMISSION

 

 

 

 

 

2024 NATIONAL PRE-TRAINING PHASE I

STAFF ORIENTATION/AWARENESS 

 

 

 

THEME:

 

KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOUR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DEDICATION

THIS WORK IS DEDICATED TO DR. CHIEF OSITA E. OKEREKE OON, OF BLESSED MEMORY THE FOUNDER, AND POINNER DIRECTOR GENERAL (DG) NATFORCE/NATCOM

 

 

SINCERE APPRECIATION TO

AMB. DR. OTUNBA ADEJARE REWANE ADEGBENRO

THE ACTING DIRECTOR GENERAL

NATCOM 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STEVE C. DE GREAT

DIRECTOR GENERAL SERVICES

NATCOM HEADQUARTERS ABUJA.

TABLE OF CONTENT

1. Introduction & Foundation

1a. Methods and Routes:

1b. Other Methods or Routes Include:

1c. The Birth of The Natforce:

1d. Mandates:

1e. With The Following Goals:

2. Our Achievements So Far

3. Here Comes the Bill

4. Definition of Key Words

4a. Natcom - What Is It?

4b. Objectives of The Commission

5. Natcom Resources Pillars

5a. Resources Pillars

 

6. Our Organizational Structure:

7. Natcom Control and Chains

8. Introduction to Security

8a. Security Defined

8b. Scope:

8c. Levels of Security

9. Policing

9a. Principles of Policing

10. Nature of Crime And Basic Security Awareness

11. Nature of Crime

 

1. INTRODUCTION & FOUNDATION

The Proliferation of small arms and light weapons has been a stricken issue in the international agenda since 1998. It is a pace of activities that is eating into the survival of emerging nation in the international scene especially in Africa. It is a phenomenon that is destabilizing the peace, development and threatening the national security of Sovereign nation.

The complications of illegal Arms and weapons of Terror worldwide informed the United Nations (U.N), to come up with a Programme of Action to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in SALW.

The local root causes of the conflicts are numerous and diverse. However, in nearly all of the conflicts, the diffusion of illegal Arms and Weapons of Terror, particularly from the industrialized nations to the developing world, has played a decisive role in the escalation, intensification and resolution of these conflicts.

Small Arms and Light Weapons are readily available, easy to use have been primary or sole tool for violence in almost all conflicts in every part of the globe. These Weapons of terror are in the hand of irregular troops operating with scant respect for international and humanitarian law, they have taken a heavy toll on human lives, with women and children accounting for 80 percent of the causalities.

The proliferation of these weapons affects the intensity and duration of violence and encourages militancy rather than a peaceful resolution of unsettled differences.

In Nigeria, this has become a serious security challenge. There is general insecurity as most part of the country experience high level crimes perpetrated using illicit arms. The UN estimated a substantial percentage of illegal Arms that is in circulation in West Africa are in Nigeria. This has fuelled violent conflicts as witnessed in the Niger Delta, kidnapping in the South East, Armed robbery pandemic in the South West , Ethnic/Religious violence on the Plateau, and the Boko Haram operations in some parts of the North; A situation which has plunged the nation into a serious state of insecurity.

Uncontrolled arms have also impacted on the country’s democracy and development negatively. Electoral violence by gun-wielding thugs and assassinations of several political leaders since 1999, have jeopardized free and fair elections in many states of the federation.

Similarly, on 31st October, 1996, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) came up with a three (3) years moratorium on the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons which has recently been upgraded into a convention. The transformation from the former to the later organ, (which has been ongoing), is now being fanalized. The organ, is domiciled at the Ministry of Defence and known as NATCOM, which has been coordinating all activities relating the control of small arms and light weapon as it relates to its policy formulation.

Upon all these treaties above, both the one of the UN in 1998 and the of ECOWAS in 1996, yet it took the bravery of Chief Dr. Osita E. Okereke OON to occupy a vacuum in the combating of  light weapons and ammunitions, for the purpose of fulfilling the above treaties. This man deserve our celebration today for been cleaver, and serious minded to would have taken the risk of forming and running National Taskforce/Commission before his demise.

THE BATTLE AGAINST ILLEGAL ARMS TRAFFICKING:

1a. METHODS AND ROUTES:

There are numerous ways by which small arms can be smuggled into the country because of their light-weight and conceal-able nature. This is not even helped by the porous nature of the borders. Trucks have been used to smuggle arms into the country, while a number of them are brought in on donkeys, camels and on foot. Similarly, SALW are transported through water ways, Boats loads of arms from the great lake’s conflict areas have been reported to have been discharged at Warn and Bonney towns of Niger Delta. Also Small Arms Survey (SAS) had reported on Malian arms smugglers packing small arms in water proof sacks. Attacking them into bottom of boats for transfer to countries along the River Niger.

The use of air craft to transport weapons internationally and regionally is also common in the West African sub region. Here military planes, play active roles in large intercontinental illicit arms transfer arranged by international brokers. Such transfer are often complex, consisting of front companies, take paperwork, and collection of brokers, financiers and corrupt state officials operating mostly from different countries. Though a combination of factors such as porosity of our borders, corruption of security and law enforcement officers and the existence of ready market in conflict flash-points in the country, such weapons are smuggled into Nigeria. This method of trafficking constitutes the most significant contributor to proliferation of arms.

1B. OTHER METHODS OR ROUTES INCLUDE:

i. Private Jetties

ii. Approved Ports

iii. Border Stations

iv. Airports

v. Mid-stream Discharges

vi. Bunkering

vii. Illegal Vessels

viii. Illegal Manufacture,

etc.

i. SUSPECTED PROMOTERS OF ILLEGAL ARMS AND WEAPONS OF TERROR IN NIGERIA:

a. Politician Smugglers,

b. Smugglers in government services;

c. Agents of smugglers, serving in government

d. Corporate organization smuggler,

e. Itinerant smugglers,

f. Pedestrian smugglers,

g. Common criminals and gangs etc.

The illicit trade thrives because the return on investment is very high, if the smuggler or illegal bunkers is not caught. Thus determined criminals just take the risk; if they succeed and the return to investment is juicy, they never stop after the first time.

ii. SOME OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR ACTIONS INCLUDES:

a. Deaths and injuries

b. Gun Culture

c. Intensification of inter-communal tension

d. Developmental Problems

e. Insecurity and uncertainty

f. Armed Robbery,

g. Banditry

h. kidnappings

i. Militancy

j. Piracy

etc

1C. THE BIRTH OF THE NATFORCE:

The above effects of illegal Arms and Weapons of terror in Nigeria are self explanatory and calls for a concerted effort by all and sundry to successfully prosecute this war against terror, the support, collaboration and involvement of all genuine stakeholders is a condition precedent to wining the war. It is within this framework that the proposition of certain organized private sector stakeholders like the Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN) was accepted by Government to set-up a special task force to combat illegal importation of small arms, ammunition and light weapons into Nigeria.

The importers association of Nigeria (IMAN) through their President General Late Chief Dr. Osige Okereke OON seeking to absolve itself of any culpability for the influx of illegal arms into Nigeria, keyed into the crusade by partnering with Government in the composition and takeoff of the National Taskforce To Combat Illegal Importation Of Small Arms, Ammunitions And Light Weapons (NATFORCE). The taskforce was jointly inaugurated by the Minster of Finance; Dr. Olusegun Aganga represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Dr. Danladi Kifasi and the National Security Adviser, Represented by Brig. General Bala Ali at the Federal Ministry of Finance Auditorium on the 16th day of July, 2010 with the following mandate.


1D. MANDATES:

To identify sources and main routes of these Small Arms, Ammunitions and Light Weapons;

To identify why this illicit trade thrives in Nigeria.

To liaise with the relevant authorities, agencies and organizations with the aim of making a success of this assignment;

To recommend possible ways to monitor, control, halt, and mitigate these  nagging illegal activities of unscrupulous persons, companies and organizations;

To itemize and identify promoters, users, patrons and reasons for these illegal activities;

To explore all avenues to achieve adequate funding for this campaign;

To train and build the capacity of the corps and other towards an effective enforcement of this mandates; and

To put in place all other machinery needed for successful prosecution of this campaign to combat illegal importation small arms, ammunition and light weapons.

1E. WITH THE FOLLOWING GOALS:

NATFORCE is to synergic with other security agencies to stem the inbound flow of arms and all other band goods.

Seek cooperation in effecting actual arrest of the culprits.


2. OUR ACHIEVEMENTS SO FAR

Since its Inauguration in 2010, the NATFORCE has recorded tremendous achievements in its poise to win the war against illegal arms, Ammunitions and weapons of terror in Nigeria. Under the leadership of Chief Dr. Osita E. Okereke OON.

The following are some of our Achievements:

i. NATFORCE has set-up an effective administrative structure based on strong operational organogram. It has renovated and operates from its secretariat at the Federal Ministry of Interior. It has acquired and launched several operational vehicles and auxiliary equipment for effective operations.

 

ii. NATFORCE has invested so much on intelligence gathering and has reached out to the State Security Service (SSS), Police, Armed Forces, Customs and Immigration services for cooperation and shared intelligence.

 

iii. On the 15th of October, 2010, the NATFORCE elite squad, intercepted a lorry load of 126,900 ammunitions and other weapons of terror, the lorry which came all the way from Ghana was cleared by Customs, but was intercepted at Onisha, Anambra State, and handed over to the Commissioner of Police – Anambra State.

 

iv. On 26th October, 2010, NATFORCE supporting other security Agencies, intercepted thirteen (13) containers loaded with Arms, explosive and incendiary weapons of terror from Iran, at the Apapa Wharf, Lagos, several months after it was handled by Customs.

 

v. In the same October, 2010, NATFORCE moved to intercept a shipment suspected to be laden with illegal Arms and weapons of terror from Ivory Coast and headed towards Onne, Port Harcourt. The intervention of NATFORCE, forced its owners and Customs collaborators to reroute and possibly trans-shipped the Cargo through Calabar Port (letter dated 11th October, 2010 and list of container numbers enclosed for your perusal).

 

vi. In early January 2011, a lorry load of arms and ammunitions was intercepted at Nsukka, Enugu State; the arms were imported by some businessmen, in Benue and cleared by Customs. This was handed over to the Commisioner of Police, Enugu State.

vii. In May, 2012, The National Taskforce, Anambra State command intercepted a trailer load of dangerous arms and ammunition in the Commercial city of Onitsa and handed over to the Commisioner of Police Anambra State Command. (see the Vanguard Newspaper of 31st May, 2012)

 

viii. The NATFORCE played a key role alongside other security agencies in the discovery of containers loaded with arms and ammunitions at Apapa Wharf on the 26th of October, 2012.

 

ix. In December 2012, the force through her Director-General announced to a bemused Nation that it has uncovered an island where arms are being stockpiled. (See Punch Newspaper of 6/12/2012 at page 13).

 

x. On the 21st July, 2013, an illegal petroleum bunker was arrested who sold the product to one Alhai Abdulrahman Yusuf in Kano. The Petroleum Tanker Driver’s Union offered N400,000 as bribe to close the case. But the Money and the exhibit were handed over the Commissioner of Police in charge of investigation, Kano State Command.

 

xi. On the 10th of September 2013,  at about 12:30pm a team of our Special Squad arrested a truck with registration number XB749DUT loaded with adulterated petroleum product of five (5) surface tanks with a capacity of 40,000 litres at Kangon Yada. They were handed over to the police.

 

xii. On the 10th of September 2013, our team on patrol arrested illegal oil bunkers at Lami Pilot and Yandodo. They were subsequently handed over to  the Commissioner of Police Kano state Command further investigation.

 

xiii. On the 5th of October 2013, some contraband goods were arrested. They include 12 tons truck loaded with foreign rice and 4 trucks of textile materials. The culprit offered the sum of N400,000 as bribe, but both the cash and the exhibits were handed over to the Commissioner of police, Kano State for further investigation.

 

xiv. On the 23rd of October 2013,  some men were arrested with weapons at Bagauda  Agric Festival. 75 knives, swords and marchets, jack-knives were recovered. They were handed over to the Divisional Police Station at Badauda.

xv. On the 28th of November 2013, an illegal drug dealer was arrested with illegal drug worth N350,000,000 at Unguwa Uku Park. He was handed over to the Kano Command for investigation.

 

xvi. On the 25th June 2014,  the force along her duty post at Amala Junction along Nsukka/Benue/Kogi Road, intercepted a bus with 21 passengers on board suspected to be insurgents. They were carrying goods suspected to be Military uniforms and knives. The suspects and the items were promptly handed over to the Nigerian Police, Enugu State Command. (see Daily Sun of 26/6/2014 page 5)

 

xvii. On the 17th of November 2014,  the Natforce Special Squad discovered and apprehended a local gun manufacturer at Isolu 1 LGA, Kogi State, with different machined used for manufactureing local guns. He was handed over to the Kaba Area Commander and later transferred to the Kogi State Command.

 

xviii. Same day also (24th November 2014) after a Police check-point at Isolu 1 LGA, a Golf-3car was discovered with 4 brand new pump-actions. The Driver  and the Car with the ammunitions were handed over to the police at Kogi State police command. We don’t know what happen thereafter.

 

xix. On the 24th of November 2014, three cattle thieves were arrested in the bush at Isolu 1 LGA. They have already loaded these cows into a truck labeled and belonging to the NURTW ready to go. On sighting our men, they cocked their riffles ready to shoot at us, but they were overpowered by our men; who later handed them over to the Kaba Area Commander.

 

xx. Natforce in collaboration with some Security Agencies have impounded large warehouses suspected illegal Arms run  by dare-ring cartels and other activities capable of sabotaging our economy i.e. those exporting our timbers illegally to China.

 

xxi. On the 3rd of March, 2015,  the National Taskforce along her duty post at Amala junction along Nsukka/Benue/Kogi roat intercepted another bus with 14 passengers on board carrying goods suspected to be army uniforms and substance suspected to be Indian hemp. The suspects and the goods have since been handed over to the Nigerian Police, Enugu State Command.

xxii. On the 3rd of March, 2015,  the force her duty post at Amala junction along Nsukka/Benue/Kogi roat intercepted another bus with 14 passengers on board carrying goods suspected to be army uniforms and substance suspected to be Indian hemp. The suspects and the goods have been handed over to the Nigerian Police, Enugu State Command.

 

xxiii. In August 2015,  the Natforce Special Squad with the help of some police men from Kaba Area Command, arrested 5 armed robbers with arms at Osolu, in Kaba LGA. They were handed over the Kaba Area Commander. Up till now we don’t know what latter happen to them.

 

xxiv. Three kidnappers were caught in Kaba LGA of Kogi State, when we took them to the Kogi State Police Command, they asked us to transfer them to Abuja Federal SARS. On getting there, we were asked to take them to Area Command, getting to Area Command, we were sent back to Federal SARS. Getting to Federal SARS, we were asked to take the Kidnappers back to the State (i.e Kogi State) were they were caught, and many more.


3. HERE COMES THE BILL

Upon the passage of National Taskforce bill by the 9th Assembly in 2022, Natforce now transited into National Commission (Bill No. SB 283,2020) An Act to provide for the establishment of a commission for SALW.

 

Objective: The passed NATCOM Bill seeks to provide for the establishment of a government body (Commission) that will be saddled with the responsibility of coordinating, contributing and complementing all activities geared towards combating the menace of the proliferation of small arm’s and light weapons in Nigeria in line with article 24 of the ECOWAS convention on SALW which was adopted on the 14th June 2006.

 

Note that, the ECOWAS convention mandated member states to establish National Commissions in their various countries as the institutional framework for the implementation of the convention’s resolutions and agreements on small arms and light weapons.

 

The passage to law, the Act establishing National Commission on Small Arms, Light Weapon, Ammunitions and other related matters by the 9th Assembly on the 22nd December, 2022 as sponsored and presented by the Natcom leadership affirms Mr. President’s determination to keep Nigeria safe from all criminalities in conformity with the Ecowas protocol to which Nigeria is signatory.

 

Today, the incoming Commission would address the evolution of 21st century tools to combat small arms abuses in all its shapes and forms. Consequently, dealing with issues of insecurity, unemployment and economy through its internally generated revenue model, as well as effective management and sharing of intelligence information’s amongst Members of the Ecowas sub-region.

 


4. DEFINITION OF KEY WORDS

1. Commission:

 A "commission" is a formal authorization, order, or charge given to a person or group of people to perform a specific task or function.

A commission can also be a group of people officially appointed to perform specified duties or control of certain issues.

4A. NATCOM - WHAT IS IT?

NATCOM stands for "The National Commission For The Coordination And Control Of The Proliferation Of Small Arms And Light Weapons (in Nigeria).

The commission is tasked with critical functions and responsibilities to address the issue of illicit arms circulation.

Key Roles Include:

i. Preventing Proliferation: The commission aims to prevent and control the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in Nigeria.

ii. Regulation and  

Prohibition:

It is responsible for regulating and prohibiting the illegal importation of small arms and light weapons into Nigeria.

iii. Institutional

    Frameworks:

Providing legal and institutional frameworks for coordinating, implementing, and monitoring efforts to control small arms and light weapons in Nigeria.

iv. Combatting Illicit Trade: The commission works to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons.

v. Promoting Peace and Security: Through education and public awareness programs, the commission aims to promote a culture of peace and address the problem of illicit arms proliferation comprehensively to achieve peace, security, development, and stability in Nigeria.


4B. OBJECTIVES OF THE COMMISSION

The core objectives of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons Proliferation include:

 

i. Preventing and combating the proliferation of small arms and light weapons:  

The commission should work towards preventing and combating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, as well as related materials, through advocacy and other means.

 

ii. Strengthening physical security and stockpile management:

The commission should focus on strengthening the physical security and stockpile management of government-held arms and ammunitions, to prevent their diversion or theft.

iii. Improving cross-border security and management:

 The commission should work towards improving cross-border security and management to deter the illicit proliferation and trafficking of small arms and light weapons, particularly in states with high levels of instability or conflict.

iv. Promoting peace, tolerance, and disarmament:

The commission should promote peace, tolerance, and disarmament, including through the arts and sports, to raise awareness and engage communities in efforts to combat small arms and light weapons proliferation.

v. Encouraging international cooperation and assistance:

The commission should encourage international cooperation and assistance to strengthen its efforts to counter the illicit proliferation of small arms and light weapons.

vi. Educating and sensitizing the public.

The commission should educate and sensitize the public on the dangers of small arms and light weapons, to discourage their illicit production and circulation.

vii. Complying with international obligations: The commission should ensure that Nigeria  complies with its obligations under the Economic Community of West African States and other relevant international conventions related to small arms and light weapons.

viii. Receiving and studying periodic reports: The commission should receive and study periodic reports from the Nigeria's security  Agencies  on the registration and licensing of arms, to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

ix. Advising relevant  Ministers:

The commission should advise the relevant  Ministers  on the formulation of policies and strategies related to small arms and light weapons, to ensure that Nigeria's  efforts are effective and aligned with international best practices

x. Performing other functions:

The commission should perform any other functions related to the objectives of the Commission, as necessary to achieve its goals and promote peace and security in Nigeria.  

 

 

5. NATCOM RESOURCES PILLARS

NATCOM is not only focusing on funding from the government and foreign donors as this will not ensure sustainability. Although not a profitmaking institution, the commission identify income-generating activity that will help support its activities, in turn contributing our excess IGR to the federal government.

 

Our sensitization activities revealed that a sustained and adequate response to the Small Arms and Light Weapons (SAWL) problem will have economic benefits for all regions and individual states as a whole.

 

5a. RESOURCES PILLARS

 

 

 

 

 

Grant, gifts and donations from international organization and donor agencies provided could be parts of resources pillars to the commission.

Quite apart from the above avenues of Internally Generated Revenue pillars, NATCOM also expects to receive donations from international Donor Agencies (IDA) like:

· Global Fund to Eradicate illicit Small Arms; code-name Curb the scourge, Protect development.

· United Nations Trust Facility Supporting Co-operation on Arms Regulation. (UNSCAR) Code name Regulate weaponry. Develop community.

· Funding and Financial supports form organization like, ATT Voluntary Trust Fund.

· United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS),

· United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs (UNODA),

· United Nations Development Program (UNDP),

· The European Union and tested and trusted nation like:

· The United States of America (USA), Australia, Finland, Germany, France, Switzerland, The Netherlands and Sweden.

MODEL: Tactical Intelligence Framework (TACIF) – NSO traditional Pattern (Community base concept) which has very effective;

· Cyber security Threat Intelligence (CTI)

· Cyber Vulnerability Intelligence (CVI), Cyber Hacking Surveillance (CHS)

· Investigation & Digital Forensic Management (DFM),

· Perception of Cyber security Threats and Risks (PCTR), Business Continuity (BC),

· Cyber security Hygiene (CSH), Incident Response Guide (RG)

· Ransomware Guide (RSG), Flow of Cyber intelligence, AI, Drone, and Satellite Surveillance.

· AI modern digital surveillance and monitoring scanners for detections.

· Well trained grand patrol and tactical squads for quick intervention and prompt response to swift intelligence.


6. OUR ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE:

Nigerian National Commissions (NATCOM), organogram is structured with the best International-Domestic best model’s/practices in accordance with both the formal and informal paramilitary security management structures-as a core civil security/Quasi-Military outfit.

 

Top-most at the hierarchy of Natcom management is headed by the Director General/ Executive Chairman who is the chief accounting officer of the commission. He is followed by the coordinating Directors/Commandants, the Zonal commandant’s, the state Directors/Commandants, the senatorial coordinators, the local government/division commission’s officers and the ward superintendents of the commission.

Administratively Natcom has eight Directorates with each directorate having between (5-6) five to six major departments under the control and supervision of the coordinating Directors/Commandants. The Directorates are namely:

 

i. Directorate of General Services

ii. Directorate of Operations

iii. Directorate of Human Resources

iv. Directorate of Legal Services

v. Directorate of Logistics

vi. Directorate of Finance & Accounts

vii. Directorate of Inter Agency

viii. Directorate of Procurement



7. NATCOM CONTROL AND CHAINS

The hierarchy of Control within the Commission is thus:-

i. The Chief Executive Officer (DG/Executive Chairman) remain at the top most echelon of the ladder commanding.

ii. The coordinating Directors (CD) are the next to the DG/Executive Chairman in hierarchy as members that formed the composition of the top management council of the commission. They control and coordinate the Eight (8) directorate across the chain. Their ranking is in the equivalence of the DIG of police or DCG of Nigeria Custom Service.

iii. The third in the hierarchy are the Zonal Directors/Commandant (ZDC) in charge of the thirteen (13)  Designated Zones across the country. (Whose ranking are the equivalent ranking level of the AIG of Police.

iv. While the next Cadre on the top management ladder are the State Directors/Commandants (SDC) who are graded with the equivalent ranks of the Commissioner’s of Police (CP) or State Comptroller’s of Customs)

v. Under the State Commands, the commission has One Hundred and Nine (109) Senatorial Zonal Officers (SZO) who are under the supervision of the sate commandants.

vi. Also in the command and control chain, we have Seven Hundred and Seventy-Four (774) Local Government Council Divisional Commission Offices (DCO’s) under the supervision of the Senatorial Zone Officers (SZO).

vii. Finally on the command and control chain, we have 176,974 numbers of Ward-Superintendents in the commission’s outpost across the entire country.

 

a. Director General/Executive chairman

b. Coordinating Directors/Commandants

c. Directors/Zonal Commanders

d. State Directors/Commandants

e. Local Government/Divisional Commission’s Officers (DCO)

f. Ward-Superintendents


8. INTRODUCTION TO SECURITY

Security refers to the measures taken to protect individuals, assets, and information from threats. These measures can include physical security, such as locks and alarms, as well as procedural security, such as background checks and security training. Security can also refer to the state of being free from danger, risk, or anxiety, as well as the protection of information against theft or misuse.

The concept of security is multifaceted and can be applied to various contexts, including national security, financial security, and personal security. It is an essential aspect of modern life, as it helps to maintain safety, stability, and peace of mind.

8a. SECURITY DEFINED

i. United Nations (UN) defines security broadly, encompassing not only traditional notions of state security but also human security. "Human security focuses on the protection of individuals and communities from threats to their safety and well-being, including poverty, disease, and environmental degradation."

ii. Defense Department of The U.S. defines security as "the degree of protection against danger, damage, loss, and criminal activity." In the military context, security involves safeguarding personnel, equipment, and infrastructure from various threats, including physical attacks, cyberattacks, and espionage.

But in a concise and layman's sense, Security can be defined as the safeguarding of assets, systems, or individuals against threats or harm.

8b. SCOPE:

Security encompasses a broad range of concerns, extending far beyond traditional notions of defense against physical threats.

 It includes:

i. Physical Security: Protecting individuals, assets, and infrastructure from physical harm, such as terrorism, crime, natural disasters, and accidents.

ii. Cyber security: Safeguarding digital systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, cyber attacks, data breaches, and other cyber threats.

iii. Economic Security: Ensuring stability and resilience in financial systems, markets, and industries, as well as protecting against economic crimes and disruptions.

iv. Environmental Security: Addressing threats to environmental sustainability, including pollution, climate change, deforestation, and natural resource depletion, which can have profound implications for human well-being and security.

v. Social Security: Promoting social cohesion, equality, and justice, and addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, discrimination, and social unrest, which can undermine stability and security.

vi. Political Security: Protecting against threats to governance structures, democratic processes, rule of law, and human rights, including corruption, authoritarianism, political violence, and civil conflicts.

vii. Health Security: Ensuring access to healthcare, disease prevention, and emergency response measures to protect against pandemics, epidemics, and other public health threats.

viii. Food Security: Ensuring access to an adequate and reliable food supply, addressing issues such as food scarcity, malnutrition, foodborne illnesses, and disruptions to food production and distribution systems.

8c. LEVELS OF SECURITY

i. Community Security:

Community security focuses on ensuring the safety and well-being of residents within a specific community or neighborhood. It involves collaboration between law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and residents to address local crime, violence, and other public safety concerns. Initiatives may include community policing programs, neighborhood watch groups, crime prevention efforts, and social services to support at-risk individuals and families.

ii. Town and City Security:

Town and city security encompasses measures to protect urban areas and their inhabitants from various threats, including crime, terrorism, and natural disasters. It involves urban planning, infrastructure development, and emergency preparedness efforts to enhance resilience and response capabilities. Measures may include urban surveillance systems, emergency response teams, disaster recovery plans, and public safety campaigns to educate residents and visitors.


iii. Border Security:

Border security involves protecting a state's borders from unauthorized entry, smuggling, trafficking, and other illicit activities. It includes border control measures such as checkpoints, patrols, and surveillance to monitor and regulate the movement of people, goods, and contraband.

Border security efforts may also involve international cooperation, intelligence sharing, and diplomatic initiatives to address transnational threats and manage border disputes effectively.

iv. National Security:

National security encompasses the protection of a nation's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and core values from external threats, including military aggression, terrorism, and espionage. It involves maintaining strong defense capabilities, conducting foreign policy to promote stability and deterrence, and collaborating with allies and international organizations to address shared security challenges.

v. Homeland Security:

Homeland security focuses on safeguarding a state's territory, population, and critical infrastructure from a range of threats, including terrorism, natural disasters, and pandemics. It involves border security, emergency preparedness and response, counterterrorism efforts, and the protection of critical infrastructure sectors such as transportation, energy, and telecommunications.

vi. Internal Security:

Internal security addresses threats to public order, law enforcement, and societal stability within a state's borders. It includes maintaining law and order, combating crime, addressing civil unrest, and ensuring the protection of citizens' rights and freedoms.

vii. Regional Security:

Regional security focuses on promoting stability, cooperation, and confidence-building measures within a specific geographical area or among neighboring states. It involves addressing regional conflicts, managing territorial disputes, and fostering dialogue and cooperation among regional actors. Regional security organizations, such as the African Union, ECOWAS, European Union, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), play a crucial role in addressing common security challenges and promoting peace and stability in their respective regions. Regional security initiatives may include conflict resolution mechanisms, peacekeeping operations; arms control agreements, and economic integration efforts to build mutual trust and cooperation among neighboring states.

viii. Global Security:

Global security encompasses efforts to address transnational threats and promote peace, stability, and sustainable development on a global scale. It involves addressing global challenges such as terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, climate change, pandemics, and cyber threats. Global security initiatives include international treaties, conventions, and agreements to prevent conflicts, promote disarmament, and protect human rights. International organizations like the United Nations, NATO, and INTERPOL play a central role in coordinating global security efforts, providing platforms for dialogue, cooperation, and collective action among member states. Global security also involves promoting international cooperation on development assistance, humanitarian aid, and peace building efforts to address root causes of insecurity and promote resilience and stability worldwide.

9. POLICING

What is it?

Oxford English Dictionary defined Policing as "the activity of keeping peace in a locality or investigating and detecting crime."

The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) on its part, defines policing as "the collaborative efforts of citizens and police that help maintain social order, prevent and investigate crimes, and enforce laws." (Source: IACP)

9a. PRINCIPLES OF POLICING

The principles of policing generally include:

i. Community Engagement:

Police should engage with the community, building trust and partnerships to address concerns and prevent crime collaboratively.

ii. Prevention:

Policing efforts should prioritize preventing crime and disorder rather than simply reacting to incidents after they occur.

iii. Proportionality: 

Police actions should be proportionate to the threat or risk presented, ensuring a balanced response that respects human rights and dignity.

iv. Accountability: 

Police should be accountable to the law, their agency, and the community they serve, with mechanisms in place to address misconduct and ensure transparency.

v. Impartiality:

Police should enforce the law impartially, treating all individuals fairly and without discrimination based on factors such as race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.

vi. Legitimacy: Police authority and actions should be perceived as legitimate by the community, based on principles of procedural justice, fairness, and respect for human rights.

vii. Transparency: Police operations and decision-making processes should be transparent, with clear communication and accountability mechanisms in place to foster trust and accountability.

viii. Ethical Conduct: Police officers should adhere to high ethical standards, demonstrating integrity, honesty, and professionalism in their interactions with the public and colleagues.

ix. Continuous improvement  

Police agencies should continually evaluate and improve their practices, policies, and training to enhance effectiveness, efficiency, and public trust.

These principles guide police behavior and decision-making, helping to ensure that law enforcement agencies serve their communities effectively and ethically.


10. NATURE OF CRIME AND BASIC SECURITY AWARENESS

 Basic Security Awareness refers to the fundamental knowledge and understanding individuals have regarding potential security threats and the steps they can take to mitigate risks and protect themselves, their assets, and their information. It involves being aware of common security vulnerabilities and practicing good security habits in everyday activities, both online and offline. Basic security awareness typically covers:

i. Identification of Threats: Recognizing common security threats such as phishing emails, malware, physical theft, and social engineering attempts.

ii. Protection of Personal Information: Understanding the importance of safeguarding sensitive information, such as passwords, financial details, and personal data, from unauthorized access or disclosure. Safe Internet Practices:

iii. Knowing how to browse the internet safely, including avoiding suspicious websites, using secure connections (e.g., HTTPS), and being cautious with downloads and attachments.

iv. Device Security: Taking basic measures to secure devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, such as installing security software, keeping software up to date, and using strong passwords or biometric authentication.

v. Social Media Safety: Understanding privacy settings on social media platforms and being cautious about sharing personal information online to avoid potential risks such as identity theft or cyberstalking.

vi. Physical Security: Being mindful of physical security risks in both home and work environments, such as locking doors and windows, securing valuables, and being cautious about sharing access to keys or entry codes. Reporting Security Incidents:

vii. Knowing how to recognize and report security incidents or suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities or IT support personnel.

 

11. NATURE OF CRIME

 The nature of crime refers to the characteristics, patterns, and underlying causes of criminal behavior within society. It encompasses various aspects, including:

i. Types of Crime: Crime can manifest in many forms, including violent crimes such as assault, robbery, and homicide, as well as property crimes like theft, burglary, and vandalism. Other types of crime include cybercrime, white-collar crime, organized crime, and hate crimes.

ii. Frequency and Trends: The nature of crime includes the frequency and trends of criminal activity over time and across different geographical areas. This involves analyzing crime rates, trends, and patterns to understand changes in criminal behavior and identify emerging threats.

iii. Causes and Motivations: Understanding the nature of crime involves examining the underlying causes and motivations behind criminal behavior. This can include factors such as socioeconomic inequality, substance abuse, mental illness, social influences, and individual psychological characteristics.

iv. Victimization: Crime impacts individuals and communities through victimization, resulting in physical, emotional, and financial harm. Understanding the nature of crime involves studying victimization patterns, risk factors for victimization, and the impact of crime on victims and their families.

v. Response and Prevention: Addressing the nature of crime requires developing effective responses and prevention strategies. This includes law enforcement efforts to investigate and apprehend offenders, as well as prevention initiatives aimed at addressing root causes, promoting community safety, and reducing recidivism. Overall, the nature of crime is complex and multifaceted, influenced by a combination of social, economic, cultural, and individual factors.

By understanding the nature of crime, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and communities can develop more informed and effective strategies to prevent and respond to criminal behavior

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