By Ankeli Emmanuel (In Sokoto State)
The Sokoto State Police Command Thursday launched its Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in line with the ongoing reforms of the Nigeria Police Force and the provisions of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, as directed by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu.
The VCRU which now replaces existing tactical formations is to amongst other things provide swift, intelligence-led, and professional responses to kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence, and other violent crimes across the State.
A statememt signed by the Command's Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Dsp Ahmed Rufa'i onbehalf of the State Commissioner of Police, CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, described the initiative as a strategic step towards modern, accountable, and community-oriented policing rooted in professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights.
"The Commissioner of Police has appointed SP Nasuru Isah as Commander of the Unit. The VCRU headquarters is situated at the State Command Headquarters, with three operational sectors covering:
"Sector 1 – Eastern Axis. Sector 2 – Central Axis. Sector 3 - Northern Axis and personnel deployed to the Units have undergone rigorous screening, vetting, and training in intelligence-led operations, lawful use of force, and protection of citizens’ rights, including proper handling of firearms, dismantling and coupling, range exercises, among others".
While emphasizing that unlawful stop-and-search, harassment, profiling, extortion, and other unprofessional conduct are strictly prohibited, the CP said they have also established dedicated complaint mechanisms through 08032861946 hotline to ensure transparency and accountability.
"The Sokoto State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property through professional, humane, intelligence-driven, and accountable policing, and encourages members of the public to support the Police with timely and credible information". NNL.