Bayelsa Police Command gets new CP as its inaugurate Anti-cultism Squad
by Peregba Jerry
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Usman Baba, has appointed CP Echeng Eworo Echeng, as the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa state command.
Recall that the immediate passed Commissioner of Police of the command, Mike Okoli, retired having attained the compulsory retirement age of 35years in service.
A statement by the Force spokesperson, CP Frank Mba, on Friday, said apart from Bayelsa state, 12 states and other formations of the police also got new commissioners.
Meanwhile, the Bayelsa state Police Command has inaugurated its Anti-cultism unit to checkmate increasing rate of cult related activities and clashes in the state.
Spokesman of the command, SP Asinim Butswat, in a statement said the Special Squad is set-up to confront cultists and ensure law and order is maintained in the state.
The statement also warned highly placed individuals patronising these cult group to refrain, adding that they would not be spared if found wanting no matter the position in the society.
It reads, “Bayelsa State Police Command notes with dismay the resurgence of cult related activities and clashes in the State, most especially in Yenagoa and its environs.
“As a proactive measure to forestall future cult clashes and violent crimes and to ensure law and order is maintained, the Command has set-up a Special Squad to confront cultists and violent criminals in the State.
“The Squad has since commenced aggressive crack down on cultists and violent criminals. So far, thirty two cultists have been arrested and upon conclusion of investigation will be charged to court under the Bayelsa State Anti-Cultism law.
“Consequently, all cult leaders, patrons and members, including minors, who have been influenced into joining the various cult groups are hereby warned to desist forthwith from any gathering, initiations and campaigns as well as any activity to promote the interest of their groups irrespective of its being violent or non-violent.
“The State Police Command is not unaware of the open and hidden involvement of prominent individuals supporting the activities of the cult groups.
“The Command wishes to state clearly and unequivocally that henceforth their perceived positions of elevation will not protect them if found violating the law.
The Public is hereby advised to take particular note of sections 1,2,3,4 and 6 of the *Bayelsa State Secret Cults/Societies and similar activities (Prohibition) Law, 2012,* which provides for the prohibition of secret cults and sundry offences with punishment ranging from 5 to 10 years imprisonment without the option of fine.
“To be forewarned is to be forearmed,” it warned.
