The new Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, has vowed to tackle kidnapping, oil bunkering, cultism and other violent crimes in the state.
Adepoju stated this during his maiden press briefing in Port Harcourt, the state capital, on Friday.
The CP stressed that the recent crises emanating from political interests in the state as well as the complexities of maintaining law and order require a proactive and strategic approach, adding that his major focus will include strengthening intelligence gathering, community policing and public engagement, zero tolerance for corruption, and curbing cultism and youth violence among others.
He further promised to step up response time to emergencies and distress calls as well as police visibility while doing so in collaboration with stakeholders.
He also emphasised stepping up community policing and engagement, rebuilding public trust between the police and the public through professionalism and respectful interactions.
“Under my watch, this command will have zero tolerance for corruption, and will hold officers accountable for any misconduct.
“We will curb cultism and youth restiveness, intensify efforts against cult-related activities and partner with youth and civil society to promote peace”, he said.
Other areas of focus for the Command, he said, include combating oil theft and environmental crimes and working with relevant agencies to dismantle criminal networks in the oil industry.
He further said his administration will be guided by integrity, transparency, and a strong sense of duty.
He called for collaboration with all stakeholders to build a safer Rivers state.
