By Oluwakemi Kindness
The FCT Police Command has inaugurated a new Voluntary Crime Response Unit (VCRU) as part of efforts to enhance security operations and improve response to violent crime across the Federal Capital Territory.
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Ahmed Sanusi, while inaugrating the unit on Monday said the initiative marks another step in strengthening public safety and addressing emerging security challenges, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across Abuja and its area councils.
He said the unit was established by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as part of efforts to improve operational effectiveness across police formations nationwide.
According to him, the VCRU has been strategically structured into five operational sectors to ensure wider coverage, faster response, improved intelligence gathering, and proactive policing across the FCT.
Sanusi explained that officers selected for the unit were carefully screened and rigorously trained based on competence, discipline, and operational capacity, noting that they are expected to serve as a model of professionalism and operational excellence.
He warned that misconduct, including abuse of authority, intimidation, extortion, and any form of unprofessional conduct, would not be tolerated, adding that erring officers would be sanctioned in line with police regulations.
“We must operate within the law, respect human rights, and maintain the highest level of professionalism and integrity,” he said.
The Commissioner also called for stronger collaboration between security agencies and residents, stressing that effective policing requires community support and timely sharing of intelligence.
“Security cannot succeed through the efforts of security agencies alone. We need the cooperation and vigilance of the people,” he added.
At the event, Brigadier General, Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya, Commander Nigerian Army’s Presidential Guards Brigade, commended the police for the initiative, describing the unit as a “force multiplier” that would strengthen security response across the FCT.
He said military support would remain available through joint coordination and communication channels to ensure improved operational outcomes.
Traditional rulers under the FCT Council of Chiefs also pledged support for the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention to address violent crime and strengthen community safety.
The Chairman of the Council of Chiefs said the unit represents a boost to security efforts in the FCT and urged residents to support security agencies through intelligence sharing and cooperation.
The new unit is expected to operate across the FCT, including rural communities in area councils, as part of broader efforts to enhance rapid response and proactive policing.
