Plateau State Police Command has arrested six suspects linked to cattle rustling, criminal conspiracy, and illegal possession of firearms, marking a significant step in the state’s efforts to combat violent crime. The arrests were made by the newly inaugurated Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), following intelligence-led operations and surveillance. The suspects were paraded at the command headquarters in Jos on Friday, during the official launch of the VCRU, a unit established under directives from former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The State Police Commissioner, CP Bassey Ewah, revealed that the VCRU was formed to enhance proactive and community-focused policing in Plateau State. He emphasized that the unit’s creation aligns with the police’s core mandate to protect lives and property. Ewah also urged residents to trust and cooperate with the unit, stressing that its success depends on strong community-police collaboration.
One of the suspects, Yahuza Sale, was apprehended after a viral Facebook video allegedly inciting fear and public unrest came to the attention of police. Detectives from the Pankshin Division acted swiftly, arresting Sale based on intelligence reports. During interrogation, Sale confessed to participating in cattle rustling alongside another suspect, Victor Danladi, also known as Boka. He admitted that the group used locally made AK-47 rifles and revolvers during their criminal activities.
Following Sale’s confession, the Intelligence Response Team arrested Danladi. Police recovered two locally made AK-47 rifles, three rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, and one locally made pump-action gun. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects will be charged once all procedures are completed. CP Ewah assured the public that the police are committed to intelligence-driven policing and community partnership.
The VCRU officers underwent rigorous screening, selection, and specialized training before deployment. Ewah highlighted that each officer was prepared for operational excellence, disciplined conduct, and strict adherence to human rights standards. The unit’s mandate is to respond swiftly and professionally to violent crimes referred to them by the command.
The VCRU will operate under a Civilian Oversight Board composed of traditional rulers, civil society organizations, lawyers, and human rights advocates. Ewah stressed that impunity, misconduct, and abuse of power will not be tolerated under his leadership. He reiterated that justice delayed or abused is justice denied, and the VCRU is designed to act with speed, precision, and integrity.
As the unit begins its operations, the Plateau Police Command remains focused on building trust and ensuring accountability. The launch of the VCRU signals a renewed commitment to tackling violent crime in the state, with community cooperation seen as essential to long-term success.
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