The Nigeria Police Force has announced the creation of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit to replace the recently-dissolved Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

Recall that SARS was dissolved days ago following nationwide protests against the extra-judicial activities of the group that have escalated over the past few years.

In a statement on Tuesday, October 13, 2020, the Police IG said that SWAT will fill the gaps left by SARS whose main role was tackling violent crimes especially armed robbery and kidnapping.

According to a statement signed by the Force spokesperson, Frank Mba, the IGP disclosed that prospective members of the unit will commence training next week at different Police tactical training institutions nationwide,

“Prospective members of this new team will also undergo psychological and medical examination to ascertain their fitness and eligibility for the new assignment,” the statement read.

Officers of the defunct SARS have also been ordered to return to Force Headquarters in Abuja for debriefing, psychological, and medical examination.

See statement below: