The Police Command in Rivers and the GS Foundation, have unveiled a state-of-the-art gender laboratory to strengthen the fight against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Port Harcourt.
”The facility, located within the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, is designed to enhance the investigation and prosecution of gender-related offences through technology.
”The laboratory is equipped with advanced forensic tools, confidential counseling spaces, digital evidence management systems and coordinated legal support services,” she said.
A representative of the GS Foundation, Mr Peter Heepen, said that the foundation partnered with the police to address the menace of SGBV in the state.
Heepen described the initiative as a major step towards strengthening institutional response to domestic violence and other gender-related crimes.
”The gender laboratory is not just a facility; it is a beacon of hope, protection and justice for survivors.
”Through this collaboration, we are building a safer society where victims are empowered to speak up and offenders are held accountable through professional, technology-based investigations,” he said.
The state Commissioner of Police (CP), Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the initiative and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons.
Adepoju said the project aligned with ongoing efforts to improve investigative standards through innovation and strategic partnerships.
He also lauded the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for promoting intelligence-led and technology-driven policing across the country.
”The establishment of this gender laboratory underscores our commitment to professionalism, accountability, human rights protection and improved service delivery,” he said.
The CP added that the facility would serve as a specialized centre for forensic evidence collection, victim support services, as well as for capacity building and data-driven analysis of gender-related crimes.
He expressed appreciation to development partners and supporting organizations for their technical contributions.(NAN)
