By Jane Okafor, Abuja
The Inspector-General of Police, Rilwan Olatunji Disu, has rolled out a sweeping operational shake-up within the Nigeria Police Force, dismantling the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams and replacing them with newly established Violent Crime Response Units (VCRUs).
Disu made the announcement on Tuesday during an emergency strategy session with Commissioners of Police and top-ranking officers at the Force Headquarters, revealing that the VCRUs will be deployed across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
He explained that the new units, which trace their roots to the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), will operate under the direct control of state Commissioners of Police, who will be held fully accountable for their actions and results.
According to the police chief, VCRU operatives have undergone rigorous training covering tactical operations, intelligence gathering, human rights compliance, and strict adherence to rules of engagement.
He stressed that their deployment will be intelligence-driven and not arbitrary.
A standout feature of the reform is the introduction of civilian oversight mechanisms aimed at boosting transparency and accountability in police operations.
Addressing recent controversies, Disu condemned the extra-judicial killing of a suspect in Effurun, Delta State, describing it as a gross violation of professional standards.
He confirmed that the officer involved, along with members of his team, has been dismissed, while the matter has been forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecution.
“The Nigeria Police Force under my leadership has zero tolerance for extra-judicial actions. Accountability will be pursued to its logical conclusion,” he stated.
On strengthening community policing, the IGP directed Commissioners to maintain consistent engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organisations to deepen trust and improve intelligence flow.
He also ordered that Commissioners make their contact details readily available to community stakeholders.
As part of the broader reform agenda, Disu ordered an immediate audit of arms and ammunition across all commands, describing it as vital to curbing misuse and enhancing operational efficiency.
Highlighting recent gains, he disclosed that in April 2026 alone, police arrested 28 suspected terrorists, 85 kidnapping suspects, 51 murder suspects, 62 armed robbery suspects, and 54 individuals linked to cultism, while rescuing 189 kidnapped victims nationwide.
The operations also led to the recovery of 140 firearms, 1,074 rounds of ammunition, and 37 stolen vehicles.
Reaffirming his reform drive, Disu urged officers to uphold professionalism and integrity, assuring Nigerians of renewed efforts to restore public confidence and guarantee safety across the country.
