IGP Abolishes SWAT, Launches Violent Crime Response Units

According to Ireporter Online, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has announced a sweeping reform of the Nigeria Police Force with the establishment and nationwide deployment of Violent Crime Response Units (VCRUs), which will replace the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams across the country.

Disu made the announcement on Tuesday during an emergency meeting with Commissioners of Police and senior officers at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, stating that the new units will operate in all 36 state commands and the Federal Capital Territory. He explained that the VCRUs, which evolved from the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad structure, will function under the direct supervision of state Commissioners of Police, who will be fully accountable for their operations and outcomes.

The IGP noted that operatives of the new units have undergone intensive training in tactical response, intelligence-driven policing, human rights compliance, and established rules of engagement. He emphasized that deployments will be strictly based on credible intelligence and not carried out arbitrarily. According to him, mechanisms for civilian oversight have also been introduced to enhance transparency and accountability in operations.

Disu further condemned the recent alleged extra-judicial killing of a suspect in Effurun, Delta State, describing the incident as unlawful and a violation of professional policing standards. He confirmed that the officer involved and members of the unit have been dismissed from service, while the case has been forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecution for further legal action. He reiterated that the Force under his leadership maintains zero tolerance for extrajudicial actions.

As part of broader reforms, the police chief directed Commissioners of Police to strengthen community policing by engaging traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to improve trust and intelligence gathering. He also instructed that their contact details be made accessible to community leaders to enhance communication and responsiveness.

Disu ordered an immediate and comprehensive audit of arms and ammunition across all police formations, describing it as a critical step to curb misuse and improve operational readiness. He also highlighted recent operational successes recorded by the Force in April 2026, including the arrest of 28 suspected terrorists, 85 kidnapping suspects, 51 murder suspects, 62 armed robbery suspects, and 54 individuals linked to cultism, as well as the rescue of 189 kidnapped victims nationwide. The police additionally recovered 140 assorted firearms, 1,074 rounds of ammunition, and 37 stolen vehicles.

He urged officers to remain professional, uphold integrity, and remain committed to restoring public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force while ensuring improved security across the country.