By joshua Kogi Police Launch Violent Crime Response Unit to Tackle Kidnapping, Banditry
The Kogi State Police Command has officially inaugurated the Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, a specialized tactical formation designed to combat rising cases of kidnapping, armed banditry, highway attacks and other violent crimes across the state.
The unit was launched on Thursday in Lokoja by the Kogi State Government, represented by the Deputy Governor, in the presence of traditional rulers, heads of security agencies, the State Security Adviser, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, civil society groups, youth and religious leaders.
The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, said the VCRU was established in line with the reform-driven policing framework of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, which prioritizes proactive, intelligence-led policing and rapid response to violent crime.
“The security environment in recent times has continued to present evolving and complex challenges, particularly armed banditry, kidnapping and highway attacks. These threats require a responsive, intelligence-driven and coordinated operational structure capable of swift intervention,” the CP stated during the launch.
He disclosed that the facility housing the VCRU was constructed and fully furnished by the Kogi State Government, which also recently renovated and upgraded it to meet the unit’s operational requirements. The investment, he said, underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening security infrastructure and supporting law enforcement.
The VCRU is mandated to respond swiftly to violent incidents, conduct intelligence-led operations, strengthen surveillance and prevention, support operations in high-risk areas, and enhance inter-agency collaboration for effective security management.
Its core objectives include improving response time, disrupting criminal networks, restoring public confidence in law enforcement, and ensuring a safer environment for residents and visitors.
The CP said personnel selected for the unit underwent rigorous screening and vetting covering discipline, operational history, integrity and physical fitness. Only officers who met strict professional standards were deployed. For operational effectiveness, members will be identified by designated black combat attire, black berets, boots and approved insignia.
He charged the officers to justify the confidence reposed in them by demonstrating discipline, courage, integrity and professionalism, stressing that the use of force must remain lawful, proportionate and guided by established rules of engagement.
The Kogi State Government was commended for providing political will, logistics and operational backing to security agencies. The administration’s prioritization of security as a cornerstone of development was highlighted as critical to sustaining peace and stability.
The police also emphasized the need for synergy with sister security agencies and active intelligence sharing from the public. Stakeholders including royal fathers, community leaders, youth organizations, civil society groups and religious leaders were urged to continue partnering with security agencies to strengthen grassroots security.
“As we formally launch this Unit today, I assure the good people of Kogi State that the VCRU will operate within the ambit of the law, uphold professionalism, respect human rights, and remain committed to protecting lives and property,” the CP assured.
The inauguration was witnessed by officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force and members of the press.