The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has unveiled a sweeping operational shake-up within the Nigeria Police Force, introducing a new structure known as Violent Crime Response Units (VCRUs) to strengthen security nationwide.
The announcement was made on Tuesday during an emergency strategy session with Commissioners of Police and other senior officers at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
According to Disu, the newly created VCRUs will be deployed across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, effectively replacing the existing Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams.
He explained that the units are a restructured evolution of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), but with tighter oversight and a renewed focus on professionalism.
Unlike previous formations, the VCRUs will operate directly under the supervision of state Commissioners of Police, who will be held fully accountable for their actions and outcomes.
Disu emphasised that personnel selected for the units have undergone rigorous training covering tactical response, intelligence-led policing, adherence to human rights standards, and proper rules of engagement.
He stressed that deployments would be strictly intelligence-driven, ruling out arbitrary operations.
To enhance transparency, the police chief noted that civilian oversight mechanisms would be built into the operations of the units, a move aimed at rebuilding public confidence in law enforcement.
Misconduct In The Force
Addressing misconduct within the force, Disu strongly condemned the recent extrajudicial killing of a suspect in Effurun, Delta State.
He described the incident as a serious violation of policing ethics and confirmed that the officer involved, along with members of his team, had been dismissed.
The case has also been escalated to the Directorate of Public Prosecution for further legal action.
“The Nigeria Police Force under my leadership will not tolerate unlawful actions. Every case of misconduct will be pursued until justice is served,” he stated.
As part of wider reforms, the IGP also directed an immediate audit of arms and ammunition across all police commands, describing it as essential for preventing misuse and improving operational efficiency.
On strengthening community relations, Disu instructed Commissioners to deepen engagement with traditional institutions, religious leaders, and civil society groups.
He also urged them to make their contact information readily accessible to community stakeholders to encourage better communication and intelligence sharing.
Recent Operational Successes
Highlighting recent operational successes, Disu revealed that in April 2026 alone, police arrested dozens of suspects linked to terrorism, kidnapping, murder, armed robbery, and cult-related activities.
He added that nearly 200 kidnapped victims were rescued during the same period, alongside the recovery of firearms, ammunition, and stolen vehicles.
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Reaffirming his commitment to reform, Disu called on officers to maintain discipline and integrity.
He reassured Nigerians that efforts are underway to restore trust and ensure safety across the country.