Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, on Friday, November 6, at the Ughelli ‘A’ Division, warned that drug abuse is driving cult violence, kidnapping and other crimes in the state, urging parents and community stakeholders to closely monitor their children and wards.
The CP who was on a familiarization tour to different Division and Area Commands under the state command, also cautioned that drug peddlers of any kind would face the full weight of the law if arrested.
Erale, said substances such as cannabis, “kolos” and tramadol are increasingly being abused, despite cannabis being a naturally occurring plant. He stressed that excessive use turns any substance into abuse and warned that drug dependence can push young people into criminal behaviour.
CP Erale expressed concern over the prevalence of cultism in Delta State, saying many cult clashes are linked to competition for drug supremacy.
“After taking drugs, the kill themselves like fowls”.
He called on parents, guardians, community leaders and other stakeholders to counsel young people against joining cult groups.
While referring to the Edo State Government for demolishing houses linked to cultists and kidnappers, the CP indicated that Delta State may adopt a similar approach and warned that anyone involved in drug peddling would be made to face the full wrath of the law.
He also warned against sexual abuse, urging mothers and other caregivers to speak up whenever they notice suspicious behaviour or signs that a child may be at risk. He said silence enables abuse to continue, while timely reporting can protect victims and bring offenders to justice.
On the issue of bail and harassment of citizens, the police boss emphasized that bail is free, warning that no suspect should be detained more than 28 hour. He mandated heads of Divisions and Area Commanders to warn their men not to abuse the rights of citizens, adding that fundamental human rights begins from the day he or she is given birth.
He urged police officers not to use their office to oppress the citizens or harass them but respect all human rights as it is against the police acts. The CP also called on the public to always help the police with information, maintaining that without information,intelligence gathering will be difficult as the police alone cannot do it as they are not ghost. He also added that information to be given to the police must be credible, accurate and truthful. “Do not give information that is to your own advantage.’
The warning aligns with the Command’s ongoing crackdown on cultism, kidnapping and violent crime. Recent police operations in the state have led to arrests of suspected cultists and kidnappers, with recoveries including firearms, ammunition and suspected illicit drugs.
Earlier in his remarks, the Ughelli Area Commander, ACP Olasunkanmi Musiliu, welcomed the CP and his entourage, disclosing that the six Divisions under his command are experiencing shortage of manpower but commended it’s host community for their peaceful cooperation.
The CP was accompanied by senior police officers from the command headquarters including the force Public Relations Officer, SP. Bright Edafe and others.