Insecurity: Bago launches 218-man anti-crime squad, commissions 12 police patrol vehicles in Niger

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has launched the State Police Command’s 218-member Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and commissioned 12 operational vehicles to strengthen the fight against banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.

The ceremony took place at the State Police Command Headquarters, Dutsen-Kura, Minna, with the governor accompanied by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mohammed Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and other government officials.

Commissioner of Police Adamu Abdullahi Elleman said the VCRU was established to provide a rapid response to violent crimes, including armed robbery, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes, farmer-herder conflicts and thuggery.

He said the unit comprises 218 specially selected officers drawn from tactical formations and police divisions across the state, who have undergone intensive training in modern policing, operational procedures and human rights.

According to the CP, the unit will be led by CSP Hassan Gimba, while the newly commissioned vehicles will improve patrols, mobility and emergency response.

Elleman thanked the Bago administration for its continued support, recalling that the state government donated five operational vehicles to the command in August 2025.

He also commended residents for providing intelligence that has aided police operations.

Commissioning the vehicles, Bago said security remained central to his administration’s development agenda, assuring the police of sustained support through the provision of logistics and operational equipment.

He said the vehicles would enhance the effectiveness of the newly established unit in responding swiftly to security threats across the state.

The governor also praised Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu for establishing the VCRU, describing the initiative as a timely response to emerging security challenges.

Addressing the officers, Elleman urged them to uphold professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights, while observing Force Order 237 on the use of firearms and other operational guidelines.