BENIN CITY – In a decisive move to reclaim the security landscape of Edo State, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has unveiled the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), a specialized tactical wing designed to dismantle organized criminal networks through high-tech intelligence and human rights-compliant operations.
The launch was the highlight of a strategic press briefing held on Wednesday, where the CP presented a scorecard of resilience, detailing significant operational breakthroughs recorded across the state from March 2026 to date.
A New Era of Policing: The VCRU
The VCRU emerges as a sophisticated alternative to previous tactical models, specifically structured to combat armed robbery and kidnapping without the controversial methods of the past. CP Agbonika emphasized that the unit is not a rebranding of SARS or SWAT.
”The VCRU is designed to build public trust through transparency and community engagement,” the CP stated.
“It is not authorized to engage in arbitrary stop-and-search operations or profiling. Its members have undergone mandatory training in human rights, marksmanship, and modern investigation.”
The unit is headed by CSP Osagie Godspower Etinosa, described by the Command as a “thoroughbred intelligent officer.” A 2010 Cadet ASP with Master’s degrees in Criminology and Peace and Conflict Resolution, CSP Osagie brings an elite pedigree of international training from China and the UK’s National Crime Agency.
His appointment is seen as a strategic move to infuse the Command with intellectual and operational excellence.
Technological Warfare Against Kidnapping
The Command’s shift toward “technologically compliant” policing has already yielded massive results, particularly in the Edo Central and North Senatorial Districts. By deploying combat drones, digital tracking systems, and lawful communication interception, the police recently smashed a notorious syndicate terrorizing Uromi and Ubiaja.
A notable success was the rescue of Mrs. Ezighode Ebosele and her son, Wisdom, kidnapped on May 1st. The operation led to the arrest of the kingpin, Yusuf Hassan (alias “Dogo Yellow”), and nine accomplices. In a firm display of inter-agency law enforcement, the Edo State Government has already demolished and confiscated the property used as the syndicate’s hideout in Ubiaja.
The Scorecard: By The Numbers
Between March 2026 and May 2026, the Command has effectively neutralized several threats. 58 Kidnapped victims rescued successfully, 55 Suspected kidnappers arrested, 23 suspects apprehended for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
In addition, 55 suspected cultists and 15 murder suspects taken into custody. Two AK-47 rifles, six pump-action guns, seven locally-made firearms, and various calibers of ammunition.
CP Agbonika expressed deep concern over the rise in rape and defilement cases, with 23 arrests made in just two months. He condemned the trend as unacceptable, vowing that the Command will pursue gender-based offenders relentlessly to ensure justice for survivors.
Under the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, the Command has prioritized musketry and combat drills. Over 480 constables have completed intensive firearms training, while Divisional Crime Officers have been trained in Audio-Visual Statement Recording to ensure professionalism and better prosecution rates in court.
The Commissioner concluded by thanking the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his unwavering support of the Command. He urged residents to remain vigilant, promising that with the new VCRU and enhanced drone surveillance, Edo State will become a no-go area for criminal elements.