The Imo State Police Command has dissolved the controversial Anti-Kidnapping Unit, widely known as Tiger Base, alongside other tactical squads linked to it, replacing them with a newly established Violent Crime Response Unit aimed at addressing violent crimes across the state.
The announcement was made at the Police Command Headquarters in Owerri, in what observers describe as one of the most far-reaching policing reforms in Imo State in recent years amid mounting public criticism over the activities of Tiger Base.
Other units affected by the restructuring include the Scorpion Unit and the Lion Squad, both of which operated alongside the now-disbanded Tiger Base outfit.
Speaking during the inauguration of the new squad, the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, explained that the move followed directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to reorganise tactical operations nationwide and improve professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force.
Bosso stated that the Violent Crime Response Unit would handle intelligence-based operations targeting armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, terrorism, illegal arms possession and other violent offences.
He noted that officers posted to the new unit were selected after careful assessment of their discipline, competence, integrity and operational background.
According to the police commissioner, the operatives had also undergone specialised training in tactical operations, intelligence gathering, crisis management and human rights compliance to ensure professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
“The inauguration of the VCRU reflects our commitment to professional policing, public safety, and improved service delivery to the people of Imo State,” Bosso said.
In a bid to strengthen accountability and public confidence, the command also inaugurated a Civilian Oversight Board made up of representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association, civil society groups, traditional institutions, religious bodies and the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
The board is expected to supervise the activities of the new unit, receive complaints from residents and provide independent recommendations to the Commissioner of Police.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by senior government officials, heads of security agencies, members of the Police Community Relations Committee, youth groups and human rights organisations.
Governor Hope Uzodinma, who was represented by the Chief Principal Security Officer, ACP Gboyako Shaba Adamu, praised the initiative and assured security agencies of continued support in tackling insecurity across the state.
Many observers believe the disbandment of Tiger Base and the creation of the VCRU could mark a turning point in tactical policing in Imo State, especially as calls for accountability and respect for human rights by security operatives continue to grow.
The event also featured the unveiling of the VCRU logo, the presentation of its official operational dress code and goodwill messages from stakeholders.
Residents were encouraged to cooperate with the new unit by providing useful information that could assist security agencies in fighting crime across the state.