The Anambra State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into a viral video that has sparked public outrage across social media platforms.
The disturbing footage, which surfaced earlier this week, allegedly shows a group of young boys conducting a cult initiation ceremony involving a minor.
Authorities say the acts depicted in the video are not only illegal but also deeply offensive to moral and social values, particularly given the involvement of a child.
Preliminary assessments by the police indicate that the incident may have occurred within a local community in Anambra State, although the exact location is yet to be determined.
Following the emergence of the video, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, minps, PhD, immediately ordered an investigation into the matter.
He directed operatives of the Anti-Cultism Squad, the Juvenile Welfare Unit, and the State Intelligence Department to collaborate closely in unravelling the facts behind the footage.
Their mandate, according to the Command, includes verifying the authenticity and source of the video, identifying the victim to ensure his safety, and apprehending all suspects connected to the act.
The Police Chief expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as a reprehensible violation of the rights and dignity of a child.
He emphasized that the Command under his leadership would not tolerate any form of child abuse, psychological grooming, or forced participation in criminal activities.
CP Orutugu also used the opportunity to reaffirm the police’s commitment to fighting cultism in all its forms, especially among youths who are increasingly being targeted by criminal groups.
He called on members of the public to assist investigators by volunteering credible information that could help identify the perpetrators.
The Command provided multiple contact channels for citizens to reach out, including emergency line 112, hotline 07039194332, and the Public Relations Officer’s number 08039334002.
The Commissioner assured the public that all information provided would be treated with utmost confidentiality and that the identity of informants would be protected at all times.
In a statement, he urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to intensify monitoring of children and teenagers, especially regarding peer associations and social gatherings.
The Command expressed concern over the rising influence of cultism among school-aged youths, warning that it poses a grave threat to the peace and moral development of society.
Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, noted that the incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities.
He added that the Command had stepped up surveillance in various communities to track down cult groups and prevent further exploitation of minors.
SP Ikenga reiterated that the police will pursue all leads to ensure that everyone involved in the viral incident is brought to justice.
The Command also appealed to social media users to avoid spreading the disturbing footage, as doing so could further traumatize the minor involved and obstruct investigations.
According to the police, the ultimate goal is to ensure the safety of the victim, identify his family, and provide necessary psychological and social support.
Meanwhile, CP Orutugu assured Ndi Anambra that the Command remains resolute in enforcing the law and protecting all residents, especially vulnerable groups like children.
He reaffirmed the police’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and order while eradicating the menace of cultism and youth criminality across the State.
The Commissioner commended the vigilance of citizens who first drew attention to the video, saying their prompt action demonstrates the power of community-police collaboration.
He urged the public to remain alert and continue reporting suspicious or harmful activities within their neighbourhoods.
The Command also cautioned individuals and groups against shielding suspects or obstructing investigations, warning that such actions constitute criminal offences.
As the investigation progresses, the police pledged to provide regular updates to keep the public informed of developments.
The Anambra State Police Command, through its proactive stance, continues to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding children and ensuring justice for all.
