Gombe Youths Ditch Kalare Cult for CCTV and Solar Power Training in Crime Prevention Drive
The Gombe State Police Command has launched a unique initiative to tackle crime by equipping former gang members with valuable skills, the two-week training programme, focused on osed-circuit television (CCTV) and solar system installation, aims to empower 20 youths who have renounced their involvement in the notorious Kalare cult.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Hayyatu Usman, highlighted the importance of skill development in crime prevention during the programme’s inauguration ceremony in Gombe
He emphasised collaboration with the state government and Thrive Trek Entrepreneur, an NGO, in making this project a reality.
Usman explained the selection process, stating that the 20 participants were chosen from a pool of 200 youths who had expressed a desire to leave behind their criminal past and embrace a peaceful life.
“After engaging with the youths and understanding their motivations for criminal activity, I felt compelled to empower them with skills that can offer them a chance to turn their lives around,” Usman said. “Imagine if every suspect received skills training before serving their sentence. It would equip them with the tools to reintegrate into society productively.”
The commissioner underscored the programme’s potential to significantly reduce crime rates in Gombe State. By providing these young people with a path to self-reliance and a positive mindset, the initiative aims to break the cycle of criminal activity.
Usman further revealed plans to collaborate with development organisations to train over 1,500 youths across the state.
He reiterated the police command’s commitment to protecting lives and property while sternly warning criminals to cease their disruptive activities.
“It’s in their best interest to choose peace and participate in this skills acquisition programme,” Usman advised. “By becoming self-sufficient, crime will lose its appeal.”
AIG Zubairu Mohammed (rtd), the Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor Inuwa Yahaya, echoed similar sentiments, urging the youths to pursue meaningful endeavours that would steer them away from crime. He also announced the state government’s ongoing construction of a dedicated skills acquisition centre to further empower young people.
Aliyu Babangida, President of Thrive Trek Entrepreneur, assured the participants that the training would equip them with the necessary skills and certification to become self-employed and financially independent.
An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Adamu Dokoro, offered words of guidance, encouraging the youths to leverage this opportunity to become positive contributors to society. He urged them to embrace their faith and utilise the training to become better individuals.
This initiative by the Gombe State Police Command represents a novel approach to crime prevention. By offering former gang members a chance to acquire valuable skills and build a brighter future, the programme has the potential to create a more peaceful and prosperous Gombe State.
