By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Police Command has formally inaugurated the Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU) as part of efforts to strengthen the protection of human rights and combat violent crimes across the state.
The initiative, introduced by the Inspector General of Police, is aimed at ensuring swift and professional responses to emerging security threats while upholding accountability and respect for the rule of law.
Speaking during the unveiling of the unit, the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, CP Bassey Ewah, said the establishment of the VCRU would enhance operational efficiency in tackling violent crimes while ensuring that policing activities conform to internationally accepted human rights standards.
The commissioner commended stakeholders, civil society organisations, community leaders and members of the public for their commitment to promoting responsible and people-centred policing.
CP Ewah explained that officers selected for the unit were carefully chosen based on professionalism, integrity, operational competence and proven records in handling sensitive assignments.
According to him, the officers are highly experienced personnel trained to respond effectively to incidents involving violent crimes and related security threats while remaining accountable to the law and the people they serve.
To ensure transparency and public confidence, the police commissioner also announced the establishment of a Civilian Oversight Mechanism to monitor the activities of the unit and address complaints from members of the public when necessary.
He reminded officers of the unit that they remain subject to the provisions of the Police Act 2020 and other extant laws, stressing that no personnel is above the law and that any act of misconduct or abuse of office would attract disciplinary measures.
During the event, CP Ewah also briefed journalists on arrests made by operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) attached to the command in collaboration with officers of the VCRU.
About six suspects were paraded for alleged cattle rustling, theft, drug-related offences and unlawful possession of firearms.
Items recovered from the suspects included three locally fabricated rifles, two revolver guns using AK-47 magazines, one pump-action gun and four rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.
The commissioner said investigations were ongoing and that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
He reassured residents of Plateau State that the VCRU would work closely with communities, civil society groups, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) and other stakeholders to improve public safety and curb violent crimes.
CP Ewah also called on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that would aid crime prevention and effective law enforcement.
