LAGOS, July 5 (Xinhua) -- Nigeria's Inspector-General of Police Ibrahim Idris Thursday called on communities to partner with the police in the fight against crime in the country.

Speaking at a security summit in southern Imo State, the police chief said local communities should partner with the police in identifying crime and dealing with it.

He emphasized the need for communities to cooperate with the police, stressing that the police could not overcome the current security challenges in the country without the support of the people.

"Under this approach, the police is engaging traditional rulers, faith-based organizations, market women, students and non-governmental organizations in resolving crimes in different communities," he added.

Idris told his audience that the police need communication and information technology infrastructure, forensic and scientific aids for investigation among other things.

He enjoined citizens to appreciate the police for the progress they had so far recorded in combating crime.

He cited recent successes achieved by the police in the southeast region to include the re-arrest and eventual death of the notorious kidnapper known as Vampire and the arrest and prosecution of another kidnapper known as Evans.

The police chief urged the people of the region to support the present administration and the police force, saying the security architecture of any nation is not strong without the people.