The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has
directed all Commissioners of Police to carry out an immediate and
comprehensive audit of arms and ammunition across their respective commands.
The directive was issued in Abuja during an emergency
conference with state police commissioners, coming shortly after an incident
involving a police officer in Delta State who fatally shot a suspect.
According to the police chief, the audit must be
thorough, transparent, and properly documented, with detailed reports submitted
to the Force Headquarters. He stressed that the exercise is aimed at
strengthening accountability, identifying operational gaps, and ensuring
accurate assessment of the force’s needs.
Disu emphasized that the audit is not a routine
administrative process but a critical step toward improving operational
readiness and preventing the misuse of weapons. He added that it would ensure
all arms and equipment are properly tracked and effectively deployed.
As part of broader reforms within the Nigeria Police
Force, the IGP also announced the restructuring of the Special Weapons and
Tactics (SWAT) units into a new formation known as the Violent Crime Response
Unit (VCRU).
He explained that the VCRU represents a major shift in
tackling serious crimes, with officers undergoing specialised training in
tactical operations, intelligence gathering, human rights compliance, and rules
of engagement.
The IGP noted that the new unit will operate strictly
based on credible intelligence and will not be deployed arbitrarily. He also
highlighted that civilian oversight has been integrated into its framework to
promote transparency and accountability.
Commissioners of Police have been tasked with
overseeing the discipline, conduct, and performance of the VCRU in their
states. They are also required to formally launch the unit with public
awareness, involving community leaders, religious figures, and the media, to
ensure Nigerians understand its role and how to hold it accountable.
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