The government of Kogi State in north-central Nigeria has launched a new police tactical formation aimed at strengthening its response to violent crime and worsening insecurity across the state.
Governor Usman Ododo on Thursday inaugurated the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in Lokoja, the state capital, describing the initiative as part of a broader push to reinforce security operations and improve rapid response capabilities.
The state government said the unit will focus on tackling armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent offences that have raised security concerns in parts of the state.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, the initiative was presented as a key step in strengthening collaboration between security agencies and improving overall public safety architecture.
Authorities say the new unit will enhance operational efficiency and support ongoing efforts to curb violent crime in the state.
Lokoja, the state capital, has in recent years experienced periodic security challenges, prompting increased government attention to policing and rapid response strategies.

