Odita Sunday 
IGP Unveils New Violence Crime Response Unit in Abuja, Pledges Accountability
By Odita Sunday
In a bold show of accountability and reform, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has ordered the criminal prosecution of officers involved in an extra-judicial killing in Delta State, while simultaneously announcing sweeping structural changes aimed at restoring public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.
Speaking at an emergency conference held Tuesday at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Centre, the police chief described the April 26 incident as “unlawful and unacceptable,” stressing that those responsible have not only been dismissed but will face full legal consequences.
The case, he confirmed, has already been forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions.
“The act violated the sanctity of human life and the professional standards of this Force,” Disu said, declaring a zero-tolerance stance on misconduct. He, however, noted that the suspect involved was found with a locally fabricated pistol and live ammunition, with investigations still ongoing.
Beyond the controversy, the IGP used the platform to roll out a major operational reform the establishment of a new Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) across all states. The unit replaces the former Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) structure and is designed to respond to serious crimes using intelligence-led, rights-compliant strategies.
Disu emphasized that the VCRU is not merely a rebranding but a “fundamental shift” in policing, with officers undergoing specialized training in tactical operations, human rights, and rules of engagement. He added that the unit will operate under strict intelligence guidance and civilian oversight to prevent abuse.
Each state Commissioner of Police, he said, will directly supervise the unit and be held accountable for its conduct, as he directed immediate public launch events to ensure transparency and community awareness.
Highlighting recent operational gains, the police boss disclosed that in April alone, security operatives arrested 28 suspected terrorists, 85 kidnapping suspects, and 62 armed robbery suspects, while rescuing 189 kidnapped victims. Additionally, 140 firearms, over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, and 37 stolen vehicles were recovered nationwide.
Reinforcing the importance of grassroots collaboration, Disu ordered Commissioners to hold regular town hall meetings with community leaders, civil society groups, and other stakeholders, noting that “security intelligence flows from the people.”
He further directed that Commissioners make their contact details accessible to community leaders, a move aimed at strengthening responsiveness and rebuilding confidence in law enforcement.
On accountability, the IGP reiterated that the Police Complaints Response Unit remains active round-the-clock, urging Nigerians to report misconduct.
He also announced an immediate nationwide audit of arms and ammunition to curb misuse and enhance operational transparency.
Disu concluded by reaffirming the Force’s commitment to reform, stating that while the Delta incident does not define the police, “our response to it will define us.”
He assured Nigerians that ongoing reforms will prioritize professionalism, human rights, and public trust as the Force works toward building a safer nation.
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