Training of personnel for the new unit of the Nigeria Police designed to combat high criminal activities in the country will commence today in designated locations of Osun and Nasarawa States. The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit is being assembled by the Police command following the disbandment of the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
Mohammed Adamu, the Inspector General of Police, disclosed the requirements for officers to be trained in the new police tactical team (SWAT). He also reiterated that no ex-SARS operatives were shortlisted in the SWAT team.
Adamu explained: ‘The officers selected for the training are young, smart and energetic officers who have acquired not less than seven years working experience with clean service records – no pending disciplinary matters, no record of violation of rights of citizens or misuse of firearms – and are physically fit to withstand the rigor of SWAT training and operations.’
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Adamu reaffirmed in the statement that the new police tactical team would function within high professional and ethical standards, obey the rule of law and dictates the of best international policing practices.
The IGP further stated that in order to achieve the set objectives, there would be partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and other development partners to train the tactical team at the Police Mobile Force (PMF) Training School, Ila Orangun, Osun State and the PMF Training School, Ende Hills, Nasarawa State.
The statement was signed by Force PRO and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Mr. Frank Mba.
The ICRC, Independent International Human Rights as well as humanitarian support organizations has been tipped to provide resources, persons and materials to handle the human rights components of the training program. Specifically, they will handle topics in line with humanitarian laws, police conduct in conflict situation, human rights standard, especially in the use of force and firearms, arrest and detention amongst others.
Other areas of the training program will include modern-day police ethics and values, intelligence-led policing, operation planning/tactical decision making processes, hostage rescue tactics and operation, weapon handling, first aid/basic life-saving skills, stress/fear management, police-citizens relations and emotional intelligence etc, the statement said.
The IGP urged the training coordinators to ensure a diligent and timely delivery of the tactical team.
The IG, more so, sought the cooperation of citizens in the ongoing development drive for a new and reformed Nigeria Police Force. He urged them to be patient and to believe in the reform processes which are all directed at ensuring the security, safety and rights of all.
Peace Omenka