MAJOR CONSTRAINTS FACING NIGERIA POLICE FORCE IN CONTROLLING THE TREND OF KIDNAPPING IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study explored the major constraints affecting the NPF in controlling the trend of kidnapping in Anambra State, Nigeria. Anambra State has a population of 4,182,032 (National Population Commission (NPC), Awka 2006). The target population for this study is 24,878 and using the proportionate stratified sampling technique, 394 respondents were selected. The institutional theory was adopted as the theoretical framework for this study. The questionnaire was used to collect data for this study. The qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical software was used to process the data collected in the study and data processed were analysed using descriptive statistics. The study found that the major constraints affecting the NPF in controlling kidnapping in Anambra state include inadequate·-manpower, lack of modern technologically enabled crime control equipment. inadequate provision of funds and logistics, lack of expertise, among others. It was recommended that there should be provision of necessary funds, adequate equipment and logistics needed by the police in performing their duty. In this regard, it was equally suggested that the Police Service Commission (PSC) should make moves to appeal to the Federal as well as the State governments to address the major infrastructural deficiencies within the NPF.