The Imo State Police Command today officially disbanded the Tiger Base, Lion Squad and other tactical units, replacing them with a newly established Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).
The move was aimed at tackling violent crimes and improving public confidence in policing across the state, reports The Nation.
The launch ceremony, held at the Police Command Headquarters in Owerri, was carried out in compliance with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Olutunji Disu, as part of ongoing reforms to strengthen professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights within the force.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Garba Bosso, said the establishment of the VCRU was designed to ensure a more coordinated and responsible approach to combating violent crimes.
According to him, “the disbandment of Tiger Base, Lion Squad and other similar tactical teams became necessary in order to restructure police operations and restore public confidence in the command.”
Bosso explained that the new Violent Crime Response Unit would focus strictly on violent criminal activities while operating within the confines of the law and respecting the rights of citizens.
“The mandate of the VCRU includes swift response to violent crimes, upholding citizens’ rights and dignity, maintaining professional standards, restoring and strengthening public trust in the police, ensuring accountability at all levels, eliminating corruption, and refraining from involvement in civil matters,” he stated.
The police commissioner noted that the initiative reflects the commitment of the police leadership to a people-centred policing system anchored on transparency, discipline and respect for human rights.
Bosso further appealed to residents of the state to support security agencies with credible information that would aid prompt response to criminal activities.
He assured the public that the new unit would operate with professionalism and strict adherence to the rule of law to guarantee improved security and a safer environment across the state.
Traditional rulers, government officials, civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders attended the event.
