Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Anambra State Police Command, through the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), on 8th July 2026 stepped up its advocacy against cultism, violent crimes, and other social vices during a radio programme that brought together critical stakeholders, including traditional rulers, youth leaders, community representatives, and members of the public. This was contained in a statement signed by SP. Ikenga Tochukwu, Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command, Awka.
The statement reads: “The interactive programme provided a platform to sensitise residents on the dangers of cultism, substance abuse, cybercrime, and other criminal behaviours while emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in promoting positive values and preventing crime. Participants and callers during the programme also discussed practical strategies for strengthening community partnerships, mentoring young people, and encouraging lawful and productive lifestyles.
“The Command further revealed plans to embark on a series of statewide youth engagement programmes under the POCACOV initiative to deepen public awareness, discourage criminal tendencies among young persons, and foster a culture of peace, discipline, and responsible citizenship across Anambra State.
“The Command also disclosed that it is making preparations to receive the National Coordinator of POCACOV from the Force Headquarters, Abuja, before the end of July 2026. The visit is expected to officially launch a comprehensive schedule of youth-focused engagements across the State, including activities during the long school vacation in August, advocacy sessions with student groups, interactions with women during their August meetings, and other community-based programmes aimed at promoting positive values and preventing crime.
“The Anambra State Police Command therefore calls on parents, teachers, traditional and religious leaders, youth organisations, community leaders, and other stakeholders to support the POCACOV initiative by encouraging young people to embrace responsible behaviour, reject cultism and other social vices, and become ambassadors of peace and development in their respective communities, ” it also added.
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