Police in Kwara Launch Special Crime Response Unit, Sets Up Civilian Oversight to Boost Public Trust
The Kwara State Police Command has inaugurated a new Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) alongside a Civilian Oversight Board, in a move aimed at strengthening intelligence-led policing and improving security collaboration across the state.
The ceremony, held at the Police Officers’ Mess, GRA, Ilorin, also marked the closing of a two-day capacity-building programme for personnel of the newly created unit.
The initiative aligns with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, on enhancing community-oriented policing and rapid response to violent crimes.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, said the new unit is expected to strengthen the command’s capacity to respond decisively to armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes while maintaining strict adherence to human rights standards.
“The Violent Crime Response Unit is established to ensure intelligence-driven operations that protect lives and property. We are also committed to professionalism, accountability, and building stronger trust with the public,” he said.
The commissioner also announced the formal constitution of the Civilian Oversight Board, describing it as a bridge between the police and the public to improve transparency and encourage community participation in security management.
Security lectures delivered during the programme included “Public Safety and Security of the State” by retired AIG Ishola Babatunde Baba-Ita, and “Trust, Cooperation and Active Participation of Stakeholders in Securing Our Communities” by retired SP A.M. Iwalaiye. The sessions focused on collaboration between security agencies and residents as a key strategy in tackling crime.
Stakeholders present included the Senior Special Adviser to the Kwara State Governor on Security, Alhaji Aliyu Muyideen, traditional rulers, youth leaders, market associations, transport unions, and vigilante groups, who all pledged support for the new initiative.
The interactive town hall session provided an opportunity for residents to raise concerns and make suggestions on improving safety, with participants urging sustained cooperation between communities and security agencies.
The command called on residents of Ilorin and across Kwara State to continue sharing credible information with security agencies, stressing that collective effort remains essential in curbing violent crime.
