The Bauchi State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to eliminating violent crime and combating terrorism in the state by launching the Violent Crime Response Unit.
- +Police vow to tackle violent crime in Bauchi
The state Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, made the pledge on Tuesday during the unit’s official inauguration in Bauchi.
The state Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, made the pledge on Tuesday during the unit’s official inauguration in Bauchi.
Speaking on the theme, “Enhancing Accountability, Strengthening Public Trust and Promoting Professionalism in Policing,” the police commissioner said the establishment of the unit was aimed at addressing emerging security threats, particularly kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and related crimes.
According to him, the vision behind the initiative is to create a practical operational unit that works strictly within the law, respects human rights, relies on credible intelligence, and collaborates closely with communities.
He stressed that the new unit was not a rebranding of any former tactical formation but a fresh operational framework built on professionalism, discipline, accountability, and public confidence.
Sani-Omolori disclosed that a rigorous and transparent screening exercise was conducted for officers selected into the unit.
“You were interviewed and assessed based on operational competence, integrity, discipline, physical fitness and understanding of human rights principles.
“I am pleased to announce that 54 officers successfully passed the screening process and have been selected for the initial deployment into the BCRU,” he said.
He explained that the officers had undergone intensive training in areas including human rights, professional conduct, rules of engagement, intelligence-led policing, tactical operations, lawful arrest procedures, detention processes and the use of force.
“The training was designed to ensure that every officer clearly understands that professionalism and respect for human dignity are fundamental requirements of modern policing,” he added.
The commissioner further announced the appointment of CSP Abdulrazak Musa as commander of the unit in the state, describing him as an experienced operational officer with a proven track record in tackling kidnapping, robbery and banditry within and outside Bauchi State.
He noted that one of the major innovations of the initiative was the establishment of a civilian oversight board for the unit.
According to him, the board comprises representatives from the judiciary, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, religious bodies, community leaders, women and youth groups, among other stakeholders.
“The essence of the board is to strengthen transparency, build public confidence and create a constructive bridge between the police and the communities we serve,” he stated.
The police commissioner said the board would provide civilian oversight into the conduct and community impact of the unit, receive public feedback and support accountability mechanisms while respecting the operational independence of the Nigeria Police Force.
He emphasised that security remained a collective responsibility and urged community leaders, religious leaders, youth groups and members of the public to support the unit with credible and timely information to aid crime prevention.
Sani-Omolori also commended the Inspector-General of Police for championing reforms aimed at building a police force Nigerians can trust and respect, while appreciating the Bauchi State Government for its continued support to security agencies in the state.
He charged members of the newly inaugurated unit to remain disciplined, accountable and respectful of citizens’ rights.
“The public will judge this unit not only by arrests made or operations conducted but by discipline, professionalism, respect for the law and relationship with the public,” he warned.
In his remarks, the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleimanu Adamu, represented by the Wazirin Bauchi, Muhammad Kari, commended the police command for its sacrifices and dedication to safeguarding lives and property.
The royal father described the inauguration of the initiative as a visionary step towards strengthening the security architecture of the state and the country at large.
He also acknowledged the support of Governor Bala Mohammed towards enhancing security efforts across the state and praised the commissioner of police for his leadership and commitment to maintaining peace and stability.
The emir pledged the continued cooperation, goodwill and prayers of the traditional institution for the success of the initiative and sustained peace in Bauchi State.
