Police
By Aminu Garko
Kano, The Police Command in Kano on Monday inaugurated a specialised Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, to strengthen efforts against violent crime and improve public safety in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) reports that the Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Bakori announced the initiative on Monday during its official inauguration.
Bakori described the initiative as a milestone in the command’s commitment to building safer communities.
He said the unit was established on April 24 in line with directives from the Nigeria Police Force leadership for advanced intelligence-led policing and improved operational efficiency.
Bakori explained that the VCRU is an intelligence-driven tactical unit created to address armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes that are threatening the lives, property and economic activities in the state.
According to him, the unit is designed to respond swiftly to violent incidents, prevent and control criminal activity through proactive deployments, and ensure thorough investigation and prosecution of offenders.
“Our goal is simple, it is to reduce response time, dominate public spaces and deny criminals the freedom to operate within Kano State,” he said.
The commissioner said the unit comprises carefully selected officers who have undergone rigorous screening and specialised training in tactical operations, intelligence handling, human rights and professional conduct in line with global best practices.
He stressed that discipline, integrity and respect for human rights would guide the unit’s operations, while the command would take full responsibility for its conduct, performance and public image.
Bakori also disclosed that the VCRU would rely on real-time intelligence, data analysis and credible information from the public to carry out its duties effectively.
He urged residents to support security agencies by providing useful information to aid crime prevention and detection.
To promote transparency and accountability, the command also inaugurated a Civilian Oversight Board for the unit.
“The board includes representatives of civil society organisations, traditional rulers, legal practitioners and community leaders, and it is expected to strengthen public confidence and inclusive policing” he said.
NAN reports that the launch was attended by senior police officers, community stakeholders and members of the public, who described the initiative as a positive step toward addressing security challenges in Kano State. (
