The Kogi State Police Command has launched a new specialised team known as the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to strengthen the fight against kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes across the state.
The unit was officially inaugurated in Lokoja on Thursday, with the Commissioner of Police, Bello Kankarofi, describing it as part of a broader national policing reform initiative driven by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
According to Kankarofi, the establishment of the unit reflects the need for a more proactive and intelligence-led approach to policing, especially in response to growing security threats.
“This is a historic occasion marking the official inauguration and operational launch of the Violent Crime Response Unit,” he said. “It is a response to the evolving security challenges we face, including banditry, kidnapping, highway attacks and other violent crimes.”
He explained that the unit was designed to improve rapid response and strengthen coordinated operations against criminal groups operating within the state.
“We require a responsive, intelligence-driven and coordinated structure capable of swift intervention,” the commissioner added.
Kankarofi also disclosed that the personnel selected for the unit underwent strict screening and professional vetting to ensure only disciplined and operationally fit officers were deployed.
“Only officers who met strict professional standards in discipline, integrity and physical readiness were selected,” he stated.
He further revealed that the unit will operate in distinctive tactical uniforms, including black combat attire, black berets, and black boots, to ensure easy identification and enhance operational efficiency.
The commissioner noted that the Kogi State Government supported the initiative by renovating and equipping the facility now housing the unit, describing it as a demonstration of commitment to strengthening security infrastructure in the state.
The VCRU, according to him, will focus on rapid intervention, intelligence-led surveillance, disruption of criminal networks, and collaboration with other security agencies to improve public safety and restore confidence among residents.
