Deploy crime prevention strategies, I-G issues order

The Inspector-General of Police (I-GP), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed the newly appointed National Coordinator, Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), SP Orvenonne Ikwen, to employ crime prevention strategies.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

He described POCACOV as a strategic national initiative of the Nigeria Police Force designed to advance non-kinetic approaches in combating cultism and other social vices.

Hundeyin said the appointment of Ikwem was in line with the I-G’s commitment to a modern, intelligence-led, technology-driven and citizen-centred policing vision.

The police spokesman said the idea was to prioritise early intervention, public trust and proactive community engagement in tackling crime nationwide.

He said the I-G had enjoined the new head of POCACOV to strengthen preventive policing and expand community engagements to ensure people-friendly and rule-of-law-compliant policing.

“You must explore innovative strategies for crime prevention, engage a diverse range of stakeholders, organisations and community leaders.

“You must also engage educational institutions, youth groups and partners who have been supporting the vision of the campaign over the years,” Hundeyin quoted the I-G as saying.

Hundeyin said the experience of the new coordinator as an experienced police officer, security and development practitioner and strategic communication expert would bring a strong blend of professional and academic credentials to her new role.