Following calls on social media for the scrapping of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad on account of its nefarious activities, the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris has ordered immediate re-organisation of the unit.
The police boss in a statement by the force spokesman, Jimoh Moshood on Monday in Abuja also ordered the investigation of all infractions, allegations and complaints against the operatives of the squad by the IGP X-Squad.
Idris said, “Under the new arrangement, a Commissioner of Police is now the overall head of the Federal Anti-Robbery Squad nationwide under the Department of Operations, Force Headquarters Abuja.
The IG further added that the FSARS will now exist and operate in the state and zonal commands under the Commissioner of Police at the Force Headquarters.
“A Federal SARS Commander of a Rank of Chief Superintendent of Police and not below Superintendent of Police will be in charge of FSARS in State and Zonal Commands across the country,” he stated.
The statement explained that all Commissioners of Police have been directed by the IG to comply with the directive with immediate effect and to warn their personnel not to pose as SARS operatives.
It noted that the X-Squad had been mandated to go round the commands and police formations nationwide to ensure strict compliance and apprehend any errant police officer.
The police further stated that a new training programme to be organized by the Force in collaboration with some civil society organizations, local and international groups and human rights organisations on police duties and human rights would be held for all FSARS personnel nationwide.