As calls for a total reform of the Nigeria Police Force continues, the Inspector-General of Police has revealed that officers of the now defunct SARS unit won’t be allowed to join the newly created SWAT unit.
The Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) unit was dissolved by the IGP following complaints and massive protests by Nigerians.
According to a Police memo, SARS former officers are barred from joining the newly-created Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit of the Nigeria Police Force.
One of the criteria for the selection of SWAT officers stipulates that they must not have worked for SARS, and officers to be recruited must also have at least seven years policing service experience, and must be passed physically fit to withstand training and operation.
They will also undergo medical and psychological fitness to certify them fit medically, emotionally, and psychologically.
Another criteria for selection is that prospective SWAT officers must not have pending disciplinary issues, or any serious previous record of professional misconduct touching on intemperate behaviour, incivility to members of the public, corrupt practices, and misuse of firearms.
For operational service, recruited officers must be between the ages of 25 and 40 years, and 35 and 45 years for command elements.
