Police launch specialized anti‑kidnapping, robbery and other offences squad in Edo

The Edo State Police Command has introduced a dedicated Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) as part of a refreshed operational plan to curb violent offences in the state.

Monday Agbonika, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, formally inaugurated the unit on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, in Benin City.

Agbonika stated that the unit will be led by CSP Osagie Godspower Etinosa, an officer noted for his extensive experience, intelligence‑gathering expertise, anti‑kidnapping operations, and tactical policing background.

He explained that the newly created specialised unit of the Nigeria Police Force aims to tackle armed robbery, kidnapping, violent organised crime and related offences through strictly intelligence‑driven actions.

According to Agbonika, unlike earlier tactical formations, the VCRU is intended to function with professionalism, accountability and full respect for human rights, in accordance with constitutional provisions and the Nigeria Police Act 2020, as amended.

“The unit is not authorised to engage in arbitrary stop‑and‑search operations, profiling of citizens, or any form of misconduct.

“The unit is not a rebranding of SARS/SWAT. Instead, it is structured to build public trust through transparency and community engagement. To achieve this, its members have undergone mandatory human‑rights, marksmanship and investigation training.

“It is subject to civilian oversight and regular accountability reporting, while ensuring the protection of lives and property across the federation. The members were selected through a rigorous and transparent process,” he said.

Agbonika also disclosed that, following the directives of Inspector‑General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, the Command has intensified tactical and investigative training across all formations.

He noted that more than 480 constables have completed intensive firearms handling, musketry and combat drills at Police Mobile Force Squadrons in the three senatorial districts of the state.

He added that selected officers received specialised tactical instruction on the handling and operational deployment of the General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG).

On the investigative side, he said Divisional Crime Officers and Investigating Police Officers have undergone specialised training in audio‑visual statement recording and modern investigative procedures to promote professionalism, accountability and stronger prosecution of criminal cases in court.

The Commissioner of Police also expressed appreciation for the Inspector‑General of Police, whose reform‑oriented, accountable and intelligence‑led policing initiatives have spurred enhanced capacity building for operatives.