The Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, has engaged traditional rulers, youth leaders and Community Development Committee (CDC) chairmen to strengthen collaboration against the recent spate of cult-related violence in the State.

There has been a resurgence of cult clashes in different communities within Yenagoa, the State capital, resulting in the deaths of over five youths in recent time.

Ajao, during the community engagement, said the violence demanded a united response.

Describing traditional rulers as the eyes of their communities, the CP urged them to work with youth leaders and CDCs to identify emerging threats, discourage reprisals and share timely information with the police.

He noted that each group has a vital role in building a common front to protect lives and restore peace.

The traditional rulers, youth leaders and CDC representatives raised concerns about the security situation and called for stronger police visibility and patrols.

They also stressed the need to protect the identities of residents who provide information, while drawing attention to other areas in which they sought support from the police and government.

The pommissioner assured them that their concerns would receive attention and emphasised the importance of sustained communication between community leaders and the Police.

He urged residents to report threats and suspicious activities promptly so that officers could intervene before violence escalated.

The community leaders expressed appreciation for the engagement and pledged to work more closely with the State Command to curb cult-related activities and prevent further loss of lives.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Mr. Musa Mohammed, the command called on all parties to reject violence and reprisals and to support lawful efforts to keep Yenagoa communities safe.

Leaders of some communities in the State capital, have openly warned their youths to desist from cult activities and channel their energies towards meaningful ventures or flee the the communities.

For instance, in Akaba, Okaka, Akenfa, Agudama, and other communities, the leaders warned that they would not hesitate to handover to the police anyone identified with cult related activities.