Lagos State Police Command has expressed sadness over the rising cases of cultism among youths in the state.

According to the command, research carried out show that the reason for increase in cultism among the young ones, was that it gives them a kind of advantage over their peers, avoid being intimidated.

Commissioner of Police, Imohimi Edgal who blamed parents, guardians and caregiver for not caring enough about their children, called for a state of emergency on cultism.

Edgal spoke at a town hall meeting with some residents of Surulere, themed “ Partnership with Community for Crime Prevention, said six out of ten young people were cultists.

He commended residents of Surulere for their support to crime fighting and criminality, saying there had been reduction in criminal activities in the area.

Edgal said the success story of crime fighting in Lagos could be attributed to intelligence information volunteered by members of the public, commending residents of Surulere for their support to crime fighting and criminality, saying that there had been reduction in criminal activities in the area.

The commissioner urged Surulere residents to continue to provide useful information to the police in their area, advising them to report any unprofessional conduct of police officers.

He also advised parents and guardians to monitor their children to prevent them being used as political thugs during the forthcoming general elections.

“The election year is approaching and it is time we started talking to ourselves. Do not allow politicians to come and use your children as touts.

“All you need to do is get your PVC and vote peacefully. Let us not allow some people come from elsewhere to disrupt the peace in Lagos,’’ he said.

He warned against attack of police formations and property in the state.

The traditional rulers, transport union leaders, hoteliers and vigilance group officials were present at the event.