The Edo State Police Command has launched a specialized Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, as part of a renewed operational strategy against violent crimes in the state.
Monday Agbonika, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, officially launched the unit on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, in Benin City.
Agbonika said the unit would be headed by CSP Osagie Godspower Etinosa, a highly experienced, intelligent and operationally sound officer with an impressive track record in intelligence gathering, anti-kidnapping operations and tactical policing.
He said the newly established specialised unit of the Nigeria Police Force was created to combat armed robbery, kidnapping, violent organised crimes and related offences through strictly intelligence-driven operations.
According to him, unlike previous tactical units, the VCRU is designed to operate with professionalism, accountability and full respect for human rights, in line with constitutional provisions and the Nigeria Police Act 2020, as amended.
“The unit is not authorised to engage in arbitrary stop-and-search operations, profiling of citizens, or any form of misconduct.
“The unit is not a rebranding of SARS/SWAT. Instead, it is structured to build public trust through transparency and community engagement. To achieve this, its members have undergone mandatory human rights, marksmanship and investigation training.
“It is subject to civilian oversight and regular accountability reporting, while ensuring the protection of lives and property across the federation. The members were selected through a rigorous and transparent process,” he said.
Agbonika also disclosed that, in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, the Command has intensified tactical and investigative training across all formations.
He said over 480 constables have undergone intensive firearms handling, musketry and combat drills at Police Mobile Force Squadrons across the three senatorial districts of the state.
He also added that selected officers have received specialized tactical training on the handling and operational deployment of the General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG).
On the investigative front, he said Divisional Crime Officers and Investigating Police Officers have also undergone specialized training on audio-visual statement recording and modern investigative procedures to ensure professionalism, accountability and improved prosecution of criminal cases in court.
The Commissioner of Police, however, appreciated the Inspector-General of Police, whose reformative, accountable and intelligence-led policing approach initiatives have motivated enhanced capacity building for operatives.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
