Police deny return of disbanded SARS

The Nigeria Police Force has denied rumors of the reinstatement of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Monday, dismissed the rumours as misinformation.

“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to debunk circulating rumors and misinformation speculating the return of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) with a reformed set of rules,” Adejobi stated.

Adejobi noted that the SARS, which was disbanded on October 11, 2020, remains dissolved and is not back in operation.

The policeman, however, urged citizens to treat information about SARS reformation and rules of engagement with caution.

He also encouraged Nigerians to verify the source of any information before accepting it as true.

“To ensure receiving accurate and reliable updates, citizens are advised to follow the official handles of the Nigeria Police Force on social media, viz @PoliceNG on X, @ngpolice on Facebook, and @nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram. Your safety and awareness are paramount; stay informed and vigilant.”

SARS was established in late 1992 to address crimes such as robbery, motor vehicle theft, kidnapping, cattle rustling, and firearm offenses.

The unit became controversial due to its connections to extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances, extortion, torture, framing, blackmail, kidnapping, illegal organ trade, armed robbery, home invasions, and the rape of both men and women, along with child arrests and violations of privacy.

SARS faced numerous investigations in response to public protests, ultimately being disbanded on October 11, 2020, following bloody nationwide protests under the slogan “End SARS,” which culminated in the shooting to death of several flag-waving protesters at the Lekki tollgate in Lagos State by elements believed to be personnel of the Nigeria security forces.