Sokoto Police Launch Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Warn Officers Against Harassment
The Nigeria Police Force in Sokoto State has launched a new Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) aimed at tackling kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence and other violent crimes across the state.
The initiative, announced by the Sokoto State Police Command through the PPRO, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i on Wednesday, is part of ongoing reforms within the police force and in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
According to the Command, the newly established VCRU replaces existing tactical formations and is designed to provide swift, intelligence-led and professional responses to violent crimes in the state.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Hayatu Hassan Shaffa, described the unit as a strategic move toward modern, accountable and community-oriented policing rooted in professionalism, integrity and respect for human rights. The Command also announced the appointment of Nasiru Isah as commander of the unit.
According to the statement, the VCRU headquarters is located at the State Command Headquarters and has been divided into three operational sectors covering the eastern, central and northern parts of the state.
Police authorities said officers deployed to the unit underwent rigorous screening, vetting and specialised training in intelligence-led operations, lawful use of force, firearm handling and protection of citizens’ rights.
The Command stressed that unlawful stop-and-search operations, harassment, profiling, extortion and other forms of unprofessional conduct would not be tolerated.
To promote transparency and accountability, the police also established a dedicated complaints mechanism through a hotline and a complaints desk at the Police Public Relations Office in Sokoto.
