The Bauchi State Police Command has reaffirmed its determination to combat violent crimes and terrorism with the inauguration of a new tactical outfit known as the Violent Crime Response Unit.
The State Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, disclosed this on Tuesday during the official launch of the unit in Bauchi.
Speaking on the theme, “Enhancing Accountability, Strengthening Public Trust and Promoting Professionalism in Policing,” the police commissioner said the initiative was designed to address growing security challenges including kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and other violent crimes across the state.
According to him, the establishment of the unit reflects the command’s commitment to modern policing driven by professionalism, intelligence gathering, respect for human rights, and stronger collaboration with communities.
“The vision behind this initiative is to establish a practical operational unit that functions strictly within the law, respects human rights, relies on credible intelligence, and works closely with the communities we serve,” he said.
Sani-Omolori stressed that the Violent Crime Response Unit was not a rebranding of any former tactical squad but a completely new operational framework built on accountability, discipline, professionalism, and public trust.
The police commissioner revealed that officers selected into the unit underwent a transparent and rigorous screening process based on competence, integrity, discipline, physical fitness, and understanding of human rights principles.
“You were interviewed and assessed based on operational competence, integrity, discipline, physical fitness and understanding of human rights principles.
“I am pleased to announce that 54 officers successfully passed the screening process and have been selected for the initial deployment into the BCRU,” he stated.
He explained that the selected officers also received intensive training covering human rights, intelligence-led policing, lawful arrest procedures, tactical operations, detention processes, rules of engagement, professional conduct, and the lawful use of force.
“The training was designed to ensure that every officer clearly understands that professionalism and respect for human dignity are fundamental requirements of modern policing,” the commissioner added.
Sani-Omolori further announced the appointment of CSP Abdulrazak Musa as commander of the new unit in Bauchi State, describing him as a highly experienced officer with a proven record in combating kidnapping, robbery, and banditry both within and outside the state.
In a move aimed at strengthening transparency and public confidence, the commissioner disclosed that a civilian oversight board had also been established for the unit.
Security experts and residents have continued to call for reforms within Nigeria’s policing system, particularly in tactical operations, following concerns over human rights abuses linked to some previous security formations.
The Bauchi Police Command said the new structure is intended to ensure effective crime-fighting while maintaining accountability and public trust.