The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has denied rumors about the return of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), stating that the unit remains dissolved. This clarification came from the Force Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement released to the press in Abuja.
SARS was a unit of the NPF that faced widespread criticism and allegations of human rights abuses, leading to its disbandment.
The Presidential Panel on the Reform of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) was established in 2018 to investigate these allegations and recommend reforms .
The NPF’s statement aims to reassure the public that SARS has not been reconstituted and that the force is committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law.
The police force statement reads, “the Nigeria Police Force wishes to debunk circulating rumours and misinformation speculating the return of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) with a reformed set of rules.“
The Special Anti-Robbery Squad which was disbanded on the 11th of October 2020, remains dissolved.“ The Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) is not back in operation as being speculated in some quarters.“ The recent information regarding SARS reformation and rules of engagement should be treated with caution. Nigerians are encouraged to verify the source of any information before accepting it as true.”
To ensure receiving accurate and reliable updates, citizens are advised to follow the official handles of the Nigeria Police Force on social media viz @PoliceNG on X, @ngpolice on Facebook, and @nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram. Your safety and awareness are paramount; stay informed and vigilant.”
Some of the atrocities attributed to SARS includes:- Extrajudicial killings: SARS officers were accused of killing suspects in custody or during raids without due process.
Torture and brutality: Many victims reported being subjected to physical and psychological torture, including beatings, shootings, and sexual assault.
Extortion and bribery: SARS officers were accused of demanding bribes from citizens, especially young people, and arresting those who refused to pay.
Illegal detention: SARS officers were known to detain people without charges or trial, often in inhumane conditions.
Targeting of vulnerable groups: SARS officers were accused of targeting vulnerable groups, including young people, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
The #EndSARS movement, which began in 2020, brought international attention to these atrocities and led to the disbandment of SARS. However, many Nigerians continue to demand justice and accountability for the abuses committed by SARS officers.
