The Anambra State Police Command has stepped up efforts to improve safety in schools, urging students and education authorities to prioritise security awareness and proactive crime prevention as part of a broader community policing strategy in southeastern Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police, Tochukwu Ikenga, the police said the initiative forms part of ongoing measures to safeguard educational institutions across the state.
As part of the campaign, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, ACP Harrison Oruru, addressed students and staff at Sacred Heart Academy in Ifite-Ogwari, Ayamelum Local Government Area, during an interactive security session focused on school safety and responsible citizenship.
Cybercrime
Oruru raised concerns over what he described as a growing trend of cultism, drug abuse, bullying and cybercrime among young people. He warned that such social vices pose serious risks to students and communities if left unchecked.
“The growing rate of cultism, drug abuse, bullying, cybercrime and other social vices among youths is worrisome,” he said.
He stressed the need for vigilance and early reporting of suspicious activities within and around school premises.
He encouraged students to cultivate positive relationships with law enforcement agencies, noting that trust and cooperation are essential to effective community policing.
The police, he said, remains ready to respond swiftly to distress calls and other security concerns affecting schools.
The Command also called on school administrators to strengthen internal security measures, including improved access control systems and structured communication channels with security agencies.
It emphasised that sustained collaboration among schools, communities and law enforcement authorities is critical to preventing potential threats.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Police Command said it is resolute in ensuring that schools across Anambra State provide a secure and enabling environment for academic excellence and youth development.