Sanì Dutsinma
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the North-West, DIG Sulaiman Muhammed Abdul, has officially launched the Nigeria Police Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in Kebbi State as part of efforts to strengthen crime prevention and enhance public safety.
Speaking during the launch, DIG Sulaiman said the initiative was in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police and demonstrates the Force’s commitment to reducing crime and improving security across the country.
He explained that the VCRU is a technology-driven unit designed to gather and analyze intelligence on criminal activities before they occur, enabling security agencies to prevent crimes rather than merely responding after incidents have taken place.
According to him, the Nigeria Police Force is adopting a proactive approach to policing through the use of modern technology and data-driven intelligence.
“The Police will no longer wait for crimes to happen before taking action. The VCRU is designed to identify and disrupt criminal plans before they are executed,” he said.
The DIG urged officers and personnel of the Kebbi State Police Command to uphold professionalism in the discharge of their duties and avoid actions that could lead to human rights violations.
He further stated that the welfare of police personnel, including healthcare and housing, remains a top priority for the Inspector-General of Police, adding that technology will play a crucial role in accelerating the fight against insecurity nationwide.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, CP Umar Hadejia, highlighted some of the command’s achievements, particularly in combating armed banditry and countering the activities of the Lakurawa and Mamudawa terrorist groups.
He noted that Kebbi’s strategic location, sharing international borders with two neighboring countries, has contributed to the rise in trans-border crimes and security challenges.
Despite these challenges, Hadejia said sustained operations by the Police and other security agencies have significantly weakened criminal groups operating in the state.
According to him, many bandits and members of the Lakurawa group have been neutralized, while several suspects have been arrested through coordinated security operations.
The Commissioner expressed confidence that the newly launched Violent Crime Response Unit would further strengthen the state’s security framework and enhance efforts aimed at preventing violent crimes in Kebbi and beyond.
He assured that the command would ensure the effective operation of the unit to support intelligence-led policing and improve public safety across the state.