By Sophia Afolabi
The Imo State Police Command has officially launched the Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, at the Command Headquarters in Owerri, in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu Rilwanu, aimed at strengthening operational response to violent crimes across the state and beyond.
The development follows the disbandment of former tactical units with animalistic call signs, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit known as Tiger Base, Scorpion Unit, and Lion Squad, as part of ongoing police reforms focused on professionalism, accountability, and improved service delivery.
The inauguration ceremony attracted top government officials, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society groups, community leaders, members of the Police Community Relations Committee, Nigerian Bar Association, National Human Rights Commission, Nigeria Union of Journalists, National Youth Council of Nigeria, and other stakeholders in the state’s security architecture.
According to the Command, the newly established Unit is saddled with the responsibility of tackling violent crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, terrorism, cultism, unlawful possession of firearms, and other serious offences through intelligence-led policing, rapid response operations, and collaboration with communities and sister security agencies.
Speaking during the event, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, said the launch of the VCRU demonstrates the Command’s resolve to strengthen professional policing standards and improve public safety across the state.
The Police Commissioner disclosed that personnel of the Unit were carefully selected based on competence, discipline, integrity, and operational experience, adding that they underwent specialized training in tactical operations, intelligence gathering, crisis management, human rights compliance, and professional conduct to ensure effective service delivery.
CP Bosso also inaugurated a Civilian Oversight Board for the Unit, made up of representatives of religious bodies, traditional institutions, civil society organizations, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the Nigeria Union of Journalists. The Board is expected to receive public feedback, provide oversight functions, and promote transparency and accountability in police operations.
Governor Hope Uzodinma, represented by the Chief Principal Security Officer, CSP Gboyako Shaba Adamu, commended the initiative and reaffirmed the state government’s support for security agencies in maintaining peace and order across Imo State.
Highlights of the event included the unveiling of the VCRU logo and operational dress code, goodwill messages from stakeholders, and other ceremonial activities, as the Command urged residents to remain law-abiding and support the Unit with timely and credible information.
The Imo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to professional policing, protection of lives and property, and sustaining peace and security across the state.
