Oyo Police Launches Special Unit To Tackle Violent Crimes

…As Makinde charges residents to report suspicious movements after Orire abduction

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has inaugurated the newly established Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the Nigeria Police Force in Oyo State, describing the initiative as timely and necessary amid rising cases of kidnapping and violent crimes across the country.

Speaking on Saturday during the official launch of the unit and the commissioning of its headquarters in Ibadan, Makinde said the creation of the specialised tactical unit reflected the collective resolve of the government and security agencies to strengthen the security architecture of Oyo State.

The governor disclosed that, according to discussions with the state Commissioner of Police, the VCRU is the first of its kind in the South-West region.

He said the establishment of the unit became more significant following recent security challenges, including the abduction incident involving children in Orire Local Government Area.

Makinde said the incident had deeply troubled many families and communities, adding that the state government was already working with security agencies to get clarity on what transpired.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families that have lost their loved ones. May the souls of the departed rest in peace,” he said.

The governor noted that the incident served as a reminder that security must never be taken for granted, stressing that government must remain proactive, vigilant and responsive at all times.According to him, economic growth, investment, tourism and social stability can only thrive in an atmosphere of safety and public confidence.

Makinde said his administration had continued to support security agencies through logistics, mobility support, surveillance infrastructure, intelligence sharing and improved inter-agency collaboration across the state.

He described the VCRU as a more intelligent, professional and rapid-response approach to tackling violent crimes, while commending the emphasis placed on professionalism, tactical preparedness, accountability and respect for human rights.

“I watched the demonstration by the unit and I want to say that you are truly prepared,” the governor stated.Makinde assured the police and other security agencies operating in the state of the government’s continued support in protecting lives and property.

He, however, maintained that security was not the sole responsibility of government, urging residents and community leaders to be more vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies.

“From what we know so far about yesterday’s incident in Orire Local Government, there is still a big gap in giving timely information to security agencies. When you see strange movements or suspicious behaviour, please report it,” he said.

The governor also commended the Inspector-General of Police and the Oyo State Police Command for the initiative, describing it as a successful collaboration between the Federal Government and sub-national authorities.

“The initiative is federal, but the impact is local,” he added.

Earlier in his address, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, said the establishment of the VCRU aligned with the reform agenda of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at replacing former tactical teams with more accountable, intelligence-driven and professionally trained units.

Olugbenga explained that the VCRU was designed to respond swiftly and effectively to violent crimes and emerging security threats while operating with strict adherence to human rights and the rule of law.

He stated that officers selected into the unit were drawn from different formations across Oyo State based on competence, discipline, integrity and operational experience.

According to him, the officers underwent specialised training in intelligence gathering, tactical operations, weapon handling, crisis response and human rights protection.

The commissioner further revealed that members of the unit had undergone drug screening and mental health evaluations to ensure operational fitness and professionalism.

Olugbenga also announced the inauguration of an independent oversight committee comprising representatives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the National Human Rights Commission, market associations, civil society groups and other stakeholders to monitor the activities of the unit and ensure accountability.

He said the newly commissioned VCRU office complex symbolised a new phase of tactical policing founded on discipline, transparency, operational excellence and community partnership.

The police commissioner charged officers of the unit to remain professional and avoid abuse of power or unprofessional conduct in the discharge of their duties.

“As we move forward, the Oyo State Police Command remains committed to strengthening intelligence-led policing, community partnership, rapid response capability and proactive crime prevention strategies aimed at ensuring that Oyo State remains safe and secure for all residents and investors,” he said.

In his remarks, The Commander of the Violent Crime Response Unit, Oyo State Police Command, CSP Olorunleke Babatunde described the unit as a proactive and intelligence-driven squad designed to strengthen in internal security and improve professional policing across the state.

He added that the primary mandate of the unit is to respond swiftly to incidents of violent and organised crimes across Oyo State while supporting divisions and area commands in tackling high-risk criminal activities.

“Officers are not expected to act randomly, intelligence must first be gathered and the appropriate authorities duly informed before any operation is carried out,” he said.

Babatunde assured residents that members of the unit had been adequately briefed to ensure that their conduct reflects professionalism, civility and accountability in line with the mandate of the Inspector-General of Police.

In their his Goodwill message, representing Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and The Coordinator Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade, commended Governor Seyi Makinde policies on security that established well-known peace in the state.

He assured the commissioner of Police and The state government of the cooperation of the residents and the citizens of the state.Dignitaries at the event are; The Traditional rulers, Representative of the Babaloja and Iyaloja, Security Chiefs in Oyo State government and others.