In a new move to strengthen the efforts at curbing crime, the Zone 2 Command of Nigeria Police says it plans to use sports to divert youths from vices.

Mr. Bala Hassan, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Zone, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

Hassan said that to actualise the plan, the Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers in the zone would be encouraged to develop sports clubs where youths could channel their energies.

He said the inherent benefits in sports informed the idea of using the medium as a good way of combating crime and other vices.

“I know some Inspectors-General and Commissioners who started something of this nature. They have started football and other sports clubs.

“You can create a football club where children will come and play and exhaust their anger and energy there.

“In that way, they will stay away from committing crime.”

Hassan, the AIG who controls Lagos and Ogun states, also said that the sports clubs could also be used as a means of extracting information on criminals from the youth.

“This development is a good way of getting information for the Commissioners of Police and Area Commanders in the zone.

“During my tour within Lagos, I will talk to Divisional Police Officers and Area Commanders and encourage them to start something of this nature.

“This is because it is a strategic way of fighting crime in our society.” (NAN)

•Photo shows Police Zone 2 AIG Bala Hassan.

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