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Rivers State Police Command has officially relaunched the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) as part of a renewed nationwide initiative directed by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, to tackle cultism, drug abuse, youth violence and other social vices.
Speaking during the relaunch, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, described POCACOV as a proactive and strategic crime-prevention initiative that promotes public enlightenment, community partnership and youth engagement.
The commissioner emphasised that the battle against cultism cannot be won by law enforcement alone.
He called on parents, guardians, teachers, religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and community stakeholders to work together by mentoring young people, instilling moral values and reporting suspicious activities to the police.
Adepoju said: “Cultism has no place in a peaceful and progressive society. It destroys lives, fuels criminality, promotes drug abuse and threatens the safety and future of our communities.
“True courage is found in discipline, hard work and integrity—not in criminal associations,” he stated.
The state police boss also warned young people against the deceptive tactics used by cult groups to recruit members with promises of protection, influence and quick wealth.
According to the commissioner, many victims later discover that leaving such groups can result in intimidation, violence or even death.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining POCACOV through continuous sensitisation campaigns across schools, tertiary institutions, churches, mosques, markets, motor parks and communities throughout Rivers State.
The state commissioner urged residents to support the police by providing timely and credible information that would help prevent crime and safeguard the future of youths.
The CP reiterated the command’s commitment to promoting peace, strengthening community policing and building a safer, crime-free society through strategic partnerships and proactive crime prevention.
