By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Police Command has formally inaugurated the Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU) as part of its commitment to protecting human rights and combating violent crimes across the state.
The initiative, designed by the Inspector General of Police, is aimed at responding swiftly and professionally to emerging security threats while maintaining accountability and adherence to the rule of law.
Speaking during the unveiling of the unit, the Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, Bassey Ewah, said the establishment of the VCRU would enhance operational efficiency in tackling violent crimes while ensuring that policing activities are conducted in line with internationally accepted human rights standards.
He commended stakeholders, civil society organisations, community leaders, and members of the public for their commitment to promoting responsible and people-centred policing in the state.
The police commissioner further disclosed that officers selected to serve in the unit were carefully chosen based on professionalism, integrity, operational competence, and proven track records in handling sensitive assignments.
According to him, the officers are experienced personnel trained to respond effectively to incidents involving violent crimes and other security threats while remaining accountable to the law and the people they serve.
In a bid to ensure transparency and boost public confidence, the CP also announced the establishment of a Civilian Oversight Mechanism tasked with monitoring the activities of the unit and addressing complaints from members of the public where necessary.
He reminded officers attached to 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 acts of misconduct or abuse of office would attract appropriate disciplinary measures.
During the event, the commissioner of Police 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 offences including cattle rustling, theft, drug-related crimes, 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 police said investigations were ongoing and that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
The commissioner of Police 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 combat violent crimes effectively.
He also called on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that would aid crime prevention and effective law enforcement.
