The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has unveiled a new specialised security outfit, the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), aimed at strengthening the fight against kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across Abuja and its satellite communities.
The unit was officially launched on Monday by the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Sanusi, who said the initiative was introduced on the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as part of ongoing reforms to improve operational efficiency and public safety nationwide.
Sanusi explained that the new unit was designed to provide a more coordinated and rapid response to emerging security threats within the territory, noting that it reflects the police force’s commitment to proactive crime prevention.
“The Violent Crime Response Unit is a specialised intervention unit established by the Inspector-General of Police as part of efforts aimed at confronting violent crime and strengthening operational effectiveness across commands nationwide,” he said.
According to him, the unit has been strategically divided into five operational sectors to ensure wider coverage and faster response time across all parts of the FCT.
“This sectoral structure is designed to ensure that no area is left vulnerable and that policing services remain proactive, visible and responsive,” the Commissioner added.
Sanusi disclosed that personnel deployed to the unit were carefully selected based on competence, discipline, and operational experience, and underwent rigorous training before deployment.
He warned that officers of the unit must adhere strictly to professional standards and respect for human rights in the discharge of their duties.
“You must conduct yourself with the highest level of professionalism, discipline, restraint and integrity. No form of misconduct, abuse of authority, intimidation, harassment, extortion or extrajudicial use of power will be tolerated,” he cautioned.
The police chief also called on residents of the FCT to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid crime prevention efforts, stressing that effective policing requires community cooperation.
“Security cannot succeed through the effort of security agencies alone. Sustained security can only be achieved through collective action and mutual trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities we serve,” he said.
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Also speaking at the event, Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brig. Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, commended the initiative, describing the unit as a “force multiplier” that would enhance ongoing security operations in the capital territory.
He urged officers of the new unit to justify the confidence reposed in them, assuring that the military would continue to support police operations where necessary.
“We are always here to provide the necessary support and backing. We have established communication links and we will continue to improve on them to ensure positive operational outcomes,” he said.
The inauguration ceremony also featured the presentation of a commendation award to CSP Mustafa Mohammed, Commander of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, for his role in a high-risk operation in Bwari Area Council.
Traditional leaders under the FCT Council of Chiefs also pledged support for the initiative, describing it as a timely response to rising security concerns within the territory.
The Inspector-General of Police had earlier announced the establishment of the Violent Crime Response Unit as part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening the Nigeria Police Force’s capacity to respond swiftly to violent crimes nationwide.
