The Plateau State Police Command has formally inaugurated the Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU), an initiative designed by the Inspector General of Police “to respond swiftly and professionally to emerging security threats, while maintaining the highest standards of accountability and respect for the rule of law.”
Speaking during the unveiling of the Unit, the Commissioner of Police in the State, Bassey Ewah, emphasised that “the establishment of the VCRU is aimed at enhancing operational efficiency in combating violent crimes, while ensuring that Policing activities are conducted within the framework of internationally accepted human rights standards.”
The CP commended “stakeholders, civil society organisations, community leaders, and members of the public for their commitment to promoting responsible and people-centred policing.”
CP Ewah further stated that “officers selected to serve in the Unit were carefully chosen based on their professionalism, integrity, operational competence, and track record in handling sensitive assignments.”
According to him, the officers “are experienced personnel trained to respond effectively to incidents involving violent crimes and other related security threats while remaining accountable to the law and the people they serve.”
In a bid to ensure transparency and public confidence, the CP also announced the establishment of a Civilian Oversight Mechanism, which is saddled with the responsibility of monitoring the activities of the Unit and addressing complaints from members of the public where necessary.
He reminded officers of the Unit that they are subject to the provisions of the Police Act 2020 and other extant laws.
“No personnel is above the law and any act of misconduct or abuse of office will attract appropriate disciplinary measures”, he warned.
During the event, the Commissioner of Police showcased some of the arrests made by the IRT operatives attached to the Command in collaboration with men from the VCRU.
A total of six suspects were paraded for “cattle rustling, theft, drug-related offences and possession of illegal firearms.”
Items recovered include “Three locally fabricated rifles, two revolver guns, all using AK-47 magazines, one pump action and four rounds of 7.62m live ammunition.”
“Investigation is still ongoing, and the suspects will be charged in court upon conclusion of our investigation,” he said.
The Commissioner of Police reassured Plateau citizens that “the VCRU will work in collaboration with communities, civil society groups, the PCRC and relevant stakeholders to improve public safety and combat violent crimes across the country.”
He called on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information capable of assisting in crime prevention and effective law enforcement.