Police Launch Response Against Violent Crimes In Plateau

The Plateau State Police Command has launched a Violent Crimes Response Unit as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against violent crimes and promote human rights-based policing in the state.

The initiative, designed by the Inspector-General of Police, is aimed at ensuring swift and professional response to emerging security threats while upholding accountability and the rule of law.

The command in a statement signed by its spokesman, Alfred Alabo, said the commissioner of police in the state, Bassey Ewah, said the establishment of the unit would enhance operational efficiency in tackling violent crimes.

Ewah noted that the unit would operate within internationally accepted human rights standards, stressing the command’s commitment to responsible and people-centred policing.

He explained that officers deployed to the unit were carefully selected based on professionalism, integrity, and proven competence in handling sensitive operations.

According to him, the personnel have been trained to respond effectively to violent crimes and related security challenges while remaining accountable to the public.

The police boss also announced the creation of a Civilian Oversight Mechanism to monitor the activities of the unit and address complaints from members of the public.

He warned that officers of the unit would operate strictly under the provisions of the Police Act 2020 and other relevant laws, adding that any form of misconduct would attract disciplinary action.

Meanwhile, the Command paraded six suspects arrested for alleged involvement in cattle rustling, theft, drug-related offences, and unlawful possession of firearms.

Items recovered from the suspects include three locally fabricated rifles, two revolver guns adapted to use AK-47 magazines, one pump-action gun, and four rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.

The police said investigations were ongoing and that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of the process.

Ewah assured residents of Plateau State that the VCRU would work closely with communities, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to improve security and curb criminal activities.