The Inspector-General of Police (IG), Mr. Mohammed has ordered the
dissolution of the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) across Police
Commands in the country.
Adamu disclosed this at a media briefing on Sunday in Abuja.
He said the dissolution was in response to the yearnings of Nigerians
adding that, by the dissolution, all officers and men of the defunct
SARS were being redeployed with immediate effect.
The IG said the force was not oblivious of the need to combat armed
robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes in the country which was
before now the core mandate of the erstwhile Squad.
Adamu pledged that a new policing arrangement to address anticipated
policing gaps by the dissolution of SARS had evolved and would be
announced in due course.
According to him, as part of measures to prevent a recurrence of events
that gave rise to the dissolution of SARS, a ‘Citizens’ and Strategic
Stakeholders’ Forum’ is being formed.
He said the forum would regularly interface with police leadership at
all levels and advise on police activities as they affect the general
public.
“In addition, the force is constituting an Investigation Team which
shall include Civil Society Organisations and Human Rights Bodies to
work with the Police in investigating alleged cases of human rights
violations.
“The measure, will enhance transparency and accountability in police
services as well as provide a system of deterrence for erring police
officers whose action clearly violates the rights of citizens,” he said.
He commended Nigerians, who genuinely expressed their concerns for a
better policing orientation in an organized, patriotic and civil manner.
Adamu pledged the commitment of the force to bequeath to the country, a
Police Force, and a System that is accountable and professional in
service delivery. (NAN)