The Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transport of Nigeria has called for more marine police officers to combat crimes on the Lagos State waterways.

The ATBOWATN President, TARZAN BALOGUN, made the call in an interview with the newsmen in Lagos yesterday.

BALOGUN said with the security challenges in Nigeria, the waterways had become alternative routes of escape for criminals.

He added that the federal and state governments should, in addition to deploying more officers, provide the necessities for them to function effectively and efficiently.

For a smooth operation, he suggested the provision of new speedboats with big engine horsepower and improved maintenance.

In addition, he mentioned the lighting up of waterways and the supply of powerful ammunition as some of the other areas to improve upon, as it will help to fight kidnapping and other criminal activities on the waterways.