Police Launch Violent Crime Response Unit As IGP Unveils Reforms

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has announced the establishment of a new Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) as part of sweeping reforms aimed at strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigeria Police Force.

The IGP disclosed this during an emergency conference with senior police leadership held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, where key strategies to tackle rising security challenges were outlined.

Disu said the VCRU is a restructured tactical formation designed to enhance the Force’s response to serious and violent crimes.

He noted that the unit would operate strictly on intelligence-based deployment, supported by specialised training, human rights compliance and structured accountability, with Commissioners of Police directly responsible for its oversight.

The conference, attended by members of the Force Management Team, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and Commissioners of Police, focused on reinforcing discipline, transparency and leadership responsibility across all levels of command.

Addressing a recent incident in Delta State involving the extra-judicial killing of a suspect, the IGP described the act as unlawful and inconsistent with the values of the Force.

He confirmed that the officers involved had been dismissed and the case forwarded for criminal prosecution, reiterating a zero-tolerance stance on misconduct.

Providing operational figures for April 2026, Disu said intelligence-led operations nationwide resulted in the arrest of 28 suspected terrorists, 51 murder suspects, 62 armed robbery suspects, 85 kidnapping suspects and 54 suspected cultists.

He added that 189 kidnapped victims were rescued, while 140 firearms, 1,074 rounds of ammunition and 37 stolen vehicles were recovered.

The IGP also directed Commissioners of Police to intensify community policing through regular town hall engagements with key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders and community groups, and to make their contact details accessible to improve communication and public trust.

He reaffirmed that ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Police Force are focused on professionalism, discipline, human rights compliance and accountability, supported by existing channels such as the Police Complaints Response Unit.

The police leadership said the measures highlight its commitment to institutional reform, improved efficiency and the protection of citizens’ rights nationwide.