The Federal Capital Territory Police Command on Monday launched a new Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in Abuja to strengthen the fight against kidnapping, armed robbery, violent attacks and other serious crimes.
The specialised unit was created to improve security operations, increase police presence and provide faster responses to criminal activities across the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding communities.
The inauguration was led by the Commissioner of Police for the FCT, Ahmed Sanusi, who said the unit was established following the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. According to him, the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to improve the operational capacity of the Nigeria Police Force and tackle growing security concerns in different parts of the country.
Sanusi explained that the new unit was designed to confront violent crimes through a more organised and proactive approach. To ensure wider coverage, the VCRU has been divided into five operational sectors across the FCT.
The arrangement, he said, will enable officers to respond more quickly to incidents, improve intelligence gathering and strengthen crime prevention efforts.
The police commissioner noted that no area within the territory would be left unattended under the new structure. He said the command intends to make policing more visible and responsive while improving the safety of residents.
According to him, officers selected for the unit underwent careful screening and specialised training before deployment. He explained that personnel were chosen based on their professional record, discipline, competence and ability to operate effectively in difficult situations.
Sanusi urged members of the unit to carry out their duties with integrity and professionalism. He warned against misconduct, abuse of power, harassment, extortion and any action that could damage public confidence in the police. He also reminded the officers to respect human rights and operate within the limits of the law while carrying out their assignments.
The commissioner further appealed to residents of the FCT to support security agencies by providing useful information that could help prevent crimes and apprehend offenders. He said effective policing depends on cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
Also present at the event was the Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya, who praised the establishment of the unit. He described the VCRU as an important addition to the security architecture of the territory and urged officers to justify the confidence placed in them through dedicated service.
Onasanya assured the police command of continued military support in maintaining security across the FCT. He disclosed that soldiers have already been deployed in various parts of Abuja and the area councils to assist ongoing security operations. He added that communication and coordination between the military and the police would continue to improve to achieve better results.
During the ceremony, the FCT Police Command also honoured the Commander of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, CSP Mustafa Mohammed, with a commendation award for bravery displayed during a recent anti-kidnapping operation in Bwari Area Council. Security officials praised his role in joint operations aimed at rescuing victims and combating criminal activities.
Traditional leaders also welcomed the creation of the new unit. Speaking on behalf of the FCT Council of Chiefs, the Ona of Abaji, Adamu Yunusa, described the initiative as a timely step towards tackling security threats facing communities within the territory. He assured the police of the support of traditional institutions in intelligence gathering and efforts to curb crime.
The establishment of the Violent Crime Response Unit follows a nationwide reform initiative announced by the Inspector-General of Police in May 2026. The programme seeks to improve the force’s ability to respond to violent crimes, strengthen intelligence operations and enhance public safety across the country.
With the launch of the unit in Abuja, authorities hope to improve security and restore confidence among residents of the Federal Capital Territory.