PSC warns CPs against tactical squads abuse

 

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has expressed concerns over the abuse of tactical police teams by the Commissioners of Police.

According to the commission, tactical Units are now overshadowing the recognised police departments, especially at the state police headquarters.

PSC spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, in a statement, described the ugly development as unprofessional and unacceptable.

Ani explained that some state police commissioners have misused the tactical units, rendering core police departments ineffective despite being led by Deputy Commissioners of Police.

The PSC spokesman added that the new commissioners must allow existing police departments to function properly.

“The Police Service Commission has warned that Tactical Units should not be allowed to supplant recognised Police Departments, especially at the State Command Headquarters.

“The commission notes that many state commissioners have abused these amorphous Tactical Units and had rendered recognised police departments redundant even when they are headed by Deputy Commissioners of Police.”

Ani said the PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd.), urged the officers to prevent the misuse of Tactical Units and ensure they do not take over roles designated for recognized departments.

“Chairman of the commission DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd,), advised the officers to ensure that Tactical Units are not abused at the state commands and not used to do the work meant for recognised Departments.

“He expressed worry about the abuse of power by these Units and noted that it is in the interest of the new CPs to work with Deputy Commissioners manning the Departments and posted by the Inspector General.

“DIG Lakanu in his contribution told the Officers to work with their subordinates and establish trust with the people – the youths, traditional leaders and Organisations such as the NBA and advised that they should refrain from establishing squads that are not necessary. ”