The Plateau State Police Command has arrested six suspects in connection with alleged cattle rustling, criminal conspiracy, and illegal possession of firearms.
The arrests, carried out by the newly established Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), were announced during the unit’s inauguration in Jos on Friday.
Commissioner of Police Bassey Ewah said the VCRU was created following a directive from former Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, adding that the initiative supports the police mandate to protect lives and property across the state.
“This fulfils the I-G’s directive for a force that is professional, humane, accountable and effective,” Mr Ewah said. “This unit answers growing demands for faster, more precise and professional responses to violent crime.”
He confirmed that the VCRU will operate under a Civilian Oversight Board comprising traditional rulers, civil society groups, lawyers, and human rights advocates. Officers underwent intensive screening and specialised training before deployment.
“Every officer selected has been prepared for operational excellence, disciplined conduct and unwavering respect for human rights. Impunity, misconduct and abuse of power will not be tolerated under my watch,” Mr Ewah added.
Among those paraded was Yahuza Sale, arrested after a viral Facebook video deemed capable of inciting public unrest. Detectives from the Pankshin Division acted on intelligence reports, leading to Sale’s confession of involvement in cattle rustling alongside an accomplice, Victor Danladi (also known as Boka).
Sale reportedly told investigators that the gang used locally made AK-47 rifles and revolvers during operations. Danladi was later arrested by the Intelligence Response Team.
Authorities recovered two locally made AK-47 rifles, three rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, and one locally made pump-action gun.
Mr Ewah said investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged upon their conclusion. He urged residents to support the police with timely and credible information, adding: “The police cannot succeed alone. Provide credible information and we will act swiftly to protect you. The VCRU is your unit.”
The unit now has a fully equipped operational base in Jos, with plans for additional sub-units across the state.
