The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed circulating rumors suggesting the return of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) with a reformed set of rules.
In an official statement issued on Monday, February 10, 2025, by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police reaffirmed that SARS remains dissolved and has not been reinstated.
“The Nigeria Police Force wishes to debunk circulating rumors 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 statement urged Nigerians to treat the claims of SARS reformation with caution, warning that such information is false and should not be taken as fact.
“The Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) is not back in operation. 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 combat misinformation, the Nigeria Police Force advised the public to follow its official social media handles for accurate and verified updates.
“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.”
The disbandment of SARS in October 2020 followed nationwide protests under the #EndSARS movement, which called for an end to police brutality and extrajudicial killings.