DIG launches violent crime response unit in Kebbi

By Haruna Aliyu, Birnin Kebbi

Deputy Inspector General of Police for the northwest, DIG Sulaiman Muhammed Abdul, officially launched the Nigeria Police Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in Kebbi State on Wednesday.

The police chief said that his visit to Kebbi and the inauguration of the VCRU were carried out under the directive of the Inspector General of Police, demonstrating a commitment to reducing crime nationwide.

According to DIG Abdul, the VCRU is technology‑driven, collecting data on crimes that are being planned by criminal elements. By anticipating these activities, the unit aims to prevent crimes before they occur rather than responding after the fact.

“The Police will no longer wait for crime to happen. With the new unit, we will be ahead of perpetrators, ensuring improved security and the safety of Nigerians wherever they are,” he said.

He urged officers and men of the Kebbi Police Command to uphold high professional standards and to avoid human‑rights abuses in the execution of their duties.

He added that police welfare, healthcare, and housing remain top priorities for the Inspector General of Police, while emphasizing that technology will accelerate the fight against insecurity across the country.

Earlier in his welcome address, Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Hadejia, highlighted the Command’s successes, including an intensive and successful campaign against armed bandits, the Lakurawa, and the Mamudawa.

Hadejia noted that Kebbi’s border with two neighboring countries has intensified violent crime in the state, but the police’s relentless efforts have pushed back bandits and Lakurawa, who now merely hit and retreat. Many have been killed and several others arrested.

“With this unit, our fight against violent crimes has been strengthened, and we will ensure the unit remains active to facilitate crime prevention in Kebbi State,” he assured.