Sokoto Police unveils unit to combat kidnapping, armed robbery

From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

The Sokoto State Police Command has launched the 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 Rilwan Disu.
This was contained in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the command, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i, issued on Thursday in Sokoto.
The VCRU replaces existing tactical formations. The Unit is established to provide swift, intelligence-led, and professional responses to kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence, and other violent crimes across the State.
The Commissioner of Police, Sokoto State Command, CP Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, psc, mnips, 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
Personnel deployed to the Unit underwent 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.
The Command emphasizes that unlawful stop-and-search, harassment, profiling, extortion, and other unprofessional conduct are strictly prohibited.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the Command has established a dedicated complaints mechanism through Hotline: 08032861946 and Complaints Desk- Police Public Relations Office, State Command Headquarters, Sokoto
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.