In a significant move to enhance operational efficiency and restore public trust, the Rivers State Police Command has announced the dissolution of all its tactical teams. The restructuring, which was made public on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, marks a strategic shift in the command’s approach to tackling high-level crime within the state.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Blessing Agabe, informed journalists that the dissolution follows a direct mandate from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
As part of the reorganization, the disbanded tactical units have been consolidated into a single, streamlined entity known as the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU). This new unit is designed to provide a more coordinated and professional response to security threats.
According to ASP Agabe, the VCRU is specifically tasked with: Swift Intervention: Responding decisively to incidents of violent crime across the state. Adherence to Protocol: Operating strictly within established rules of engagement. Human Rights Compliance: Ensuring that all operations are conducted with profound respect for fundamental human rights.
The spokesperson emphasized that this restructuring aims to boost public confidence by ensuring that policing is both effective and accountable.
The Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, issued a stern warning to officers integrated into the new unit and the command at large. He underscored that the era of impunity is over, specifically citing extortion and abuse of office as intolerable offences. “Any violation of the Nigeria Police Force Code of Conduct will attract severe disciplinary action,” CP Adepoju stated.
Reaffirming the command’s primary duty, the Commissioner reassured residents of the police’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property. He called upon members of the public to act as partners in security by reporting suspicious activities or any instances of officer misconduct to the appropriate authorities.
The command reiterated its resolve to transition toward a “people-centred” policing model, ensuring that law enforcement in Rivers State remains transparent, disciplined, and focused on the safety of the citizenry.
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