Bayelsa Police Intensify Crackdown on Cult Violence

The Bayelsa State Police Command has announced a crackdown on cult groups and their sponsors, emphasizing the need to prevent cult-related violence in the state. Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, issued a warning on Monday, instructing Divisional Police Officers and tactical commanders to enhance patrols in vulnerable areas and respond quickly to credible intelligence regarding planned cult activities.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, stated that the command is also working closely with community leaders to identify and mitigate emerging tensions. CP Adewale stressed that there would be no exceptions in pursuing individuals involved in cultism, regardless of their status.

The Bayelsa State Secret Cults/Societies and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2012, as amended in 2018, prohibits cult membership and sponsorship, imposing criminal penalties for violations. The police urged parents to warn their children against cult involvement and encouraged residents to report suspicious activities.