By Amah
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The Nigeria Police Force has introduced a major operational shake-up in Imo State with the official disbandment of the controversial Tiger Base, Lion Squad and other tactical teams, replacing them with a newly created Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).
The announcement was made on Wednesday at the Police Command Headquarters in Owerri during the formal inauguration of the new unit by the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso.
The restructuring follows a directive from the Inspector General of Police, Olutunji Disu, as part of broader police reforms aimed at promoting professionalism, accountability, operational discipline and respect for human rights across the country.
For years, tactical formations, such as Tiger Base and Lion Squad, drew public attention in Imo over allegations of abuse, intimidation and involvement in civil disputes beyond their core policing responsibilities. The latest decision signals an attempt by the police authorities to rebuild public trust while repositioning crime-fighting operations in the state.
Speaking at the ceremony, Bosso said the establishment of the Violent Crime Response Unit was designed to create a more coordinated, intelligence-driven and law-abiding framework for tackling violent crimes.
According to him, the dissolved tactical teams were replaced to ensure a policing structure that prioritises citizens’ rights and operates strictly within the rule of law.
The police commissioner explained that the VCRU would focus exclusively on violent criminal activities, including armed robbery, kidnapping and other security threats, while avoiding interference in civil matters.
He listed the core responsibilities of the unit to include rapid response to violent crimes, enforcement of professional standards, protection of citizens’ dignity, accountability in operations, anti-corruption compliance and restoration of public confidence in policing.
Bosso stressed that the new arrangement reflects the command’s commitment to a people-oriented policing system anchored on transparency, discipline and respect for fundamental human rights.
The commissioner also appealed to residents of Imo State to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could help prevent crime and improve emergency response.
He assured the public that officers attached to the new unit would operate with strict professionalism and adherence to legal procedures in order to guarantee improved security across the state.
The inauguration ceremony attracted traditional rulers, government representatives, civil society groups, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders, many of whom described the reform as a significant step toward strengthening public confidence in law enforcement in Imo State.
