The Nigeria Police Force has refuted reports circulating in some online media claiming that the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, ordered the disbandment of all police tactical units and squads across state commands.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the Police described the report as a misrepresentation of the IGP’s directive.
According to the statement, the IGP did not order a total dissolution of tactical units but instead approved a strategic reduction in their number to address operational concerns and improve efficiency within the Force.
The Police leadership acknowledged growing public concerns over the activities of tactical teams, particularly the proliferation of such units by Commissioners of Police and heads of formations, which has reportedly led to oversight challenges and complaints of misconduct.
While recognising the critical role of tactical teams in crime-fighting across the country, the IGP expressed concern over their excessive expansion, noting that it has depleted manpower at Police Divisions and Posts and contributed to issues affecting the integrity of the Force.
To address these challenges, the IGP directed that tactical teams at Zonal and State Command levels be reduced to a maximum of five, while Area Commands and Divisions are to operate no more than three teams.
The directive allows for flexibility, as heads of formations may merge or disband units where necessary to meet the new limits.
The Police further clarified that the directive does not affect state-backed security outfits such as Lagos State’s Rapid Response Squad, Oyo State’s Special Response Squad (SRS), and Bayelsa State’s Operation DOO-AKPOR, among others.
The Force noted that the move is expected to free up personnel for deployment to Police Stations, enhance supervision, and reduce complaints from members of the public regarding the conduct of tactical teams.
Reaffirming his commitment to accountability and a people-friendly policing system, the IGP stated that the restructuring is aimed at strengthening Police Divisions and improving service delivery nationwide.
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