Lagos — The police in Lagos State have decided to extend the search for criminals to churches and mosques in the state as robbers continue to target Lagos churches.

The Lagos State police image maker, Mr. Victor Chilaka, who made the disclosure, said the decision was informed by intelligence reports which linked churches with the recent upsurge in crime.

Recently, armed bandits snatched three Prado Jeeps in Ikeja and while they were being chased by policemen along ACME Road, the bandits reportedly manoeuvred the vehicles among other vehicles in a crowded church and escaped.

Last week, armed bandits who posed as worshippers ambushed a luxury bus along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway at the Redeemed Christian Church premises and killed over five people before escaping with their valuable properties.

Intelligence reports have linked weekend robberies to traffic jams caused by churches located close to highways and without standard parking space. It was also discovered by intelligence experts that more vehicles are removed from parks at churches during weekends.

"The commissioner of police has directed that all churches and mosques should be strictly monitored on Sundays and Fridays", Mr. Chilaka said.

He also commented on the displeasure of the commissioner of police over illegal political rallies in the state. "The commissioner has warned politicians to obtain rally permits before embarking on any rally or face the wrath of the law.

On the forthcoming police strike, Chilaka said the commissioner of police has warned all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to ensure that all junior policemen, irrespective of their areas of service report to work in uniform instead of mufti.

Issuance of arms and ammunition, according to the order, should be restricted to senior officers.