The Imo State Police Command has disbanded its controversial tactical units with animal call signs and inaugurated a new Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) aimed at improving professionalism and public trust.
The VCRU was officially launched on Wednesday at the Command Headquarters in Owerri.
The initiative followed a directive by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, to strengthen operational capacity and response to violent crimes across the state.
As part of the reform, the Command scrapped some units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit known as Tiger Base, alongside the Scorpion Unit and Lion Squad.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Garba Bosso, said the reform was intended to deepen accountability and move away from practices associated with the disbanded formations.
He explained that the VCRU is mandated to tackle armed robbery, kidnapping, terrorism, cultism, unlawful possession of firearms and other serious crimes.
According to him, the operations of the unit will rely on intelligence-led policing, rapid response and collaboration with communities and other security agencies.
Bosso further disclosed that personnel of the unit were selected based on competence, discipline, integrity and operational experience.
He added that the officers underwent specialised training in tactical operations, intelligence gathering, crisis management, human rights compliance and professional conduct.
To boost transparency, the Command also inaugurated a Civilian Oversight Board for the VCRU.
The board comprises representatives of religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
The board is expected to receive public feedback and monitor the unit’s operations to strengthen accountability.
The event was attended by top government officials, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society groups, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), NBA, NUJ, National Human Rights Commission and the National Youth Council of Nigeria.
Representing Governor Hope Uzodinma, the Chief Principal Security Officer, CSP Gboyako Shaba Adamu, commended the initiative and reaffirmed the state government’s support for security agencies.
The event featured the unveiling of the VCRU logo and operational dress code.
The Command urged residents to support the unit with timely and credible information and remain law-abiding.
Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said the Command remains committed to professional policing, protection of lives and property, and sustaining peace across the state.
