The Commissioner of Police (CP) for Abia State, Danladi Isa, has announced the disbandment of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit and the Command’s Special Squad (CSS), replacing them with a newly trained and highly professional unit called the Scorpion Squad.
This restructuring, which was formally communicated through a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Maureen Chinaka, aims to strengthen the police force’s ability to tackle violent crimes while ensuring that officers operate within the bounds of professionalism and the rule of law.
The new Scorpion Squad will be led by SP Ibe Daniel, who will serve as the Commander, with DSP Eze Augustine appointed as the second-in-command. This change comes at a time when Abia State, like many other parts of Nigeria, is grappling with rising concerns over criminal activities such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and communal violence.
According to CP Danladi Isa, the decision to replace the SWAT unit and the Special Squad was made after careful consideration of the need for a more focused and effective approach to tackling the increasing incidents of violent crime in the state. The newly formed Scorpion Squad is tasked with addressing these issues through intelligence-driven operations aimed at neutralizing criminal activities that threaten the peace and safety of the residents of Abia.
During the unveiling of the Scorpion Squad, CP Isa stressed the importance of maintaining discipline, professionalism, and a strong commitment to the rule of law in all police operations. He pointed out that the squad would operate under strict codes of conduct and adhere to established guidelines to ensure that the rights of the people are respected while maintaining public safety.
“It is crucial that all personnel within the Scorpion Squad conduct themselves in line with the highest standards of professionalism and discipline. This squad has been formed to serve the people of Abia, and we will not tolerate any actions that undermine the trust and confidence the public has in our police force,” CP Isa said.
The new squad is designed to be more than just a reactive force. Officers will be trained to carry out proactive and intelligence-based operations, ensuring that law enforcement efforts are directed where they are most needed. In line with this directive, CP Isa highlighted that all operations must be guided by intelligence, and officers will be expected to follow proper operational dress codes for easy identification and accountability.
The Scorpion Squad has been specifically created to address violent crimes, which have become a significant concern for both the police and the citizens of Abia. Over the past few years, Abia State has witnessed an increase in armed robberies, kidnappings, and violent clashes among rival groups. This has created a sense of insecurity among residents, who are now looking to the police for more effective intervention.
With the new squad in place, the state’s police force is determined to ensure that criminal activities, especially violent crimes, are addressed and reduced to the barest minimum. CP Isa expressed optimism that the new approach, backed by professional training and a renewed commitment to integrity, would lead to a significant reduction in crime rates in Abia.
A key feature of the new unit is its highlight on professionalism and accountability. CP Isa made it clear that officers in the Scorpion Squad will be held to the highest standards and will face strict consequences for any actions that tarnish the image of the police force.
The CP noted that it is essential for officers to understand that they are servants of the public and must perform their duties with integrity. “Any misconduct will not be tolerated. Those found guilty of any act that undermines the reputation of the force will face appropriate sanctions. We are here to serve the people, and our actions must reflect that responsibility,” he warned.
The new squad’s commitment to accountability also extends to ensuring transparency in their operations. Officers will be required to maintain proper identification, and their actions will be closely monitored to prevent any excesses or violations of citizens’ rights. This approach is expected to foster a greater sense of trust between the police and the people they serve.
The success of the Scorpion Squad will depend largely on how well they execute their operations and whether they can reduce the fear of crime in Abia State. With their focus on intelligence-driven actions, professionalism, and accountability, there is hope that the squad will become a model for other states facing similar security challenges.
