The Nigeria Police Force has firmly refuted claims circulating on social media that the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) has been revived under a new set of reformed rules. Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, addressed the speculation early Monday morning, emphasizing that the controversial unit remains dissolved.

The clarification comes amid growing concerns on social media that newly established tactical squads by state police commands are exhibiting behaviors reminiscent of the notorious SARS operatives. Adejobi categorically denied these claims, stating, “There are tactical squads created by various states to fight crimes and criminality, but not the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS. Not at all.”

He further explained that each state tactical squad operates under distinct identification marks and uniforms, with operatives accountable to their respective Commissioners of Police (CPs) for their actions and inactions. “Their operatives are responsible to their CPs and answerable for their actions and inactions,” Adejobi added.

The SARS unit was officially disbanded on October 11, 2020, following nationwide #EndSARS protests triggered by widespread allegations of brutality, extortion, and extrajudicial killings by its operatives. Adejobi reiterated that the unit has not been reinstated, urging Nigerians to treat any information about its reformation with caution.

“The Special Anti-Robbery Squad which was disbanded on the 11th of October 2020, remains dissolved. 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,” he advised.

Adejobi also encouraged the public to follow the official social media handles of the Nigeria Police Force for accurate and verified updates about its operations.

Similarly, in response to public complaints about the conduct of operatives in the newly established tactical squads, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has pledged to address the issue during a meeting with senior officers, including Commissioners of Police and Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs), held on Monday.

Adejobi confirmed that the IGP has empowered CPs and AIGs to investigate and act on complaints against operatives. “The IGP has a meeting with the CPs and above today, Monday, and this will be included on his agenda. The CPs are to control their activities, and we hope this will be addressed once this time around,” he said.

He further assured the public that the police leadership is committed to addressing infractions and ensuring accountability. “If it warrants dismissal, they have been empowered to carry on, in line with our laid-down procedures. We will never neglect any infractions,” Adejobi stated.