.By Ahmad Mubarak
The Kogi State Government has inaugurated the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), a specialized tactical squad established to combat kidnapping, armed banditry and other violent crimes across the state.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Lokoja, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo described the establishment of the VCRU as a significant milestone in his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Mr. Joel Salifu, stated that the facility was fully funded by the Kogi State Government and constructed between March and July 2024.
Governor Ododo disclosed that the state government also provided four Toyota Hilux operational vehicles, one bullet-proof Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), and three Toyota Sienna vehicles to strengthen the operational capacity of the unit and enhance its effectiveness in responding to security threats.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, noted that the evolving security challenges confronting the country require specialized and coordinated responses, particularly in tackling kidnapping, armed robbery and banditry.
The police commissioner commended the Kogi State Government for constructing, furnishing, renovating and upgrading the facility to meet the operational requirements of the newly established tactical outfit.
He further emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, youth groups, religious organizations and residents in the collective effort to combat crime and maintain peace across the state.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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