Law enforcement introduces specialized task force to combat abduction in Sokoto

The Sokoto State Police Command has introduced a new tactical squad, known as the Violent Crime Response Unit, with the primary objective of combating kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes throughout the state.

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This development is in line with the ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Police Force, as well as the provisions outlined in the Nigeria Police Act 2020, according to a statement released by the command's spokesperson, Ahmad Rufa’i, on Thursday.

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The newly formed Violent Crime Response Unit will supersede existing tactical formations, providing swift and intelligence-led responses to kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence, and other violent crimes across Sokoto State.

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Commissioner of Police Hayatu Shaffa has hailed the initiative as a significant step towards modern, accountable, and community-based policing, founded on professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights.

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The Commissioner emphasized that the Command remains dedicated to restoring and strengthening public confidence in policing through intelligence-driven operations and strict adherence to the rule of law.

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Nasiru Isah has been appointed as the commander of the new unit, as approved by the police chief.

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The Violent Crime Response Unit's headquarters will be situated at the State Command Headquarters, with three operational sectors covering the Eastern, Central, and Northern axes of the state.

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Officers assigned to the unit have undergone rigorous screening, vetting, and specialized training in intelligence-led policing, lawful use of force, firearms handling, and citizens' rights protection, according to the statement.

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The command has stressed that unlawful stop-and-search, harassment, profiling, intimidation, extortion, or any form of misconduct against members of the public will not be tolerated under any circumstance.

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To bolster accountability, the police have established a complaints hotline, 08032861946, and instructed residents to direct their grievances through the Police Public Relations Office in Sokoto.

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Ahmad Rufa’i stated that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property through professional, transparent, and intelligence-driven policing, while urging residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.