By Adesakin Adefemi
Inspector-General of Police Rilwan Olatunji Disu on Tuesday announced a sweeping reform of the Nigeria Police Force with the creation and nationwide deployment of Violent Crime Response Units, VCRUs, replacing the Special Weapons and Tactics teams across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Disu disclosed the move during an emergency meeting with Commissioners of Police and senior officers at Force Headquarters, Abuja. He said the new units evolved from the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad structure and will be under the direct supervision of state Commissioners of Police, who bear full responsibility for their conduct and outcomes.
According to the IGP, VCRU operatives have undergone intensive training in tactical operations, intelligence gathering, human rights compliance, and rules of engagement. He stressed that the units will act strictly on credible intelligence and will not be deployed arbitrarily.
A key part of the reform is the integration of civilian oversight into VCRU operations to guarantee transparency and accountability. Disu said the measure is designed to prevent abuses that plagued previous tactical squads and to rebuild public confidence in police operations.
The police chief also condemned the recent extra-judicial killing of a suspect in Effurun, Delta State, calling it unlawful and a violation of professional policing standards. He confirmed that the officer involved and members of his team have been dismissed, with the case forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecution for further action.
“The Nigeria Police Force under my leadership has zero tolerance for extra-judicial actions. Accountability will be pursued to its logical conclusion,” Disu stated.
On community policing, the IGP directed Commissioners to engage regularly with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society groups to build trust and enhance intelligence gathering. He ordered that Commissioners make their contact details accessible to community leaders to strengthen communication channels.
As part of broader reforms, Disu mandated an immediate and comprehensive audit of arms and ammunition across all commands, describing it as a critical step toward preventing misuse and improving operational readiness.
Highlighting recent gains, the IGP revealed that in April 2026 alone, the Force arrested 28 suspected terrorists, 85 kidnapping suspects, 51 murder suspects, 62 armed robbery suspects, and 54 individuals linked to cultism. Within the same period, 189 kidnapped victims were rescued nationwide, while police recovered 140 assorted firearms, 1,074 rounds of ammunition, and 37 stolen vehicles.
Disu urged officers to uphold professionalism and integrity, assuring Nigerians of the Force’s resolve to rebuild public trust and ensure safety across the country.
