The Nigeria Police Force has denied reports of SARS’ reinstatement, stating the unit remains disbanded. Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi urged the public to disregard viral claims of its return with new rules of engagement. The disbandment followed the 2020 #EndSARS protests against police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and human rights violations.
The Nigeria Police Force has refuted claims that the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) has been reinstated. Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi reaffirmed that SARS remains disbanded, dismissing social media reports suggesting its return with new rules of engagement.
A viral post recently alleged that SARS had been reformed with mandates restricting its interference in civil matters and cybercrimes. However, Adejobi urged Nigerians to disregard such claims, emphasizing the importance of verifying information from official police channels.
“SARS was disbanded on October 11, 2020, and remains dissolved. Any reports suggesting otherwise should be treated with caution,” he stated.
SARS was officially disbanded following the nationwide #EndSARS protests in 2020, where young Nigerians demanded police reforms due to widespread allegations of brutality, extortion, and extrajudicial killings. The protests led to a government directive dissolving the unit, though concerns remain over continued human rights violations by some officers.
Despite police reassurances, skepticism lingers, with citizens wary of potential covert reintroductions of SARS-like operations. Reports of misconduct among security forces have fueled speculation, intensifying public scrutiny of law enforcement actions.
Adejobi reiterated the force’s commitment to professional policing and urged the public to rely on verified sources for updates regarding police reforms.
