In a major restructuring aimed at combating kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and other violent crimes across the state, the Cross River State Police Command has announced the disbandment of three of its tactical team, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Anti-Kidnapping Squad, and Anti-Cultism Squad, replacing them with the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).

Announcing the development in a press release issued on Friday in Calabar, the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Eitokpah Akata, said the initiative which is in compliance with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu is part of ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Police Force under the provisions of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020.

The statement noted that the VCRU was designed as a swift, intelligence-led tactical response unit to address rising security concerns, particularly kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related violence, and other organised crimes threatening public safety in the state.

Commissioner of Police, Rashid Afegbua, described the launch of the unit as a strategic shift towards “modern, accountable, and community-oriented policing rooted in professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights.”

According to the Command, Titus Udofia has been appointed Commander of the VCRU, which will operate from the State Command Headquarters in Calabar.

The unit will also operate through two major operational sectors strategically positioned across the state. Sector One will oversee the Northern Axis covering Ikom and Ogoja, while Sector Two will cover the Central Axis, including Akamkpa and Ugep.

In what appears to be a response to growing public concerns over police misconduct and abuse by tactical teams, the Command stressed that officers deployed to the VCRU underwent “rigorous screening, vetting, and specialised training” in intelligence-driven operations, lawful use of force, and citizens’ rights protection.

The Command warned that acts such as unlawful stop-and-search operations, harassment, profiling, extortion, and other forms of unprofessional conduct would not be tolerated under the new arrangement.

To strengthen transparency and public confidence, the Police also announced the establishment of a dedicated complaints and feedback mechanism for residents to report misconduct or operational concerns.

The Command further urged residents to support security agencies with timely and credible information to aid ongoing efforts to curb violent crime and improve safety across Cross River State.