The Anambra State Police Command has arrested 17 suspected cultists during coordinated raids on identified hideouts in Awka as security operatives intensify efforts to tackle cult-related activities and criminality in the state.
The arrests were carried out in the early hours of Sunday by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit following intelligence reports on alleged cult operations within parts of the state capital.
Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the suspects were apprehended at locations believed to be linked to cult activities and other acts considered contrary to public morality.
According to the police, items recovered from the suspects included dried leaves suspected to be cannabis sativa, containers of petroleum jelly, condoms and other exhibits considered relevant to ongoing investigations.
The suspects were identified as Okeke Ugochukwu, 28; Okoro Christian, 17; Goodluck Michael, 25; Amuche Michael, 24; Ojukwu Divine, 26; Ikechukwu Chimeremeze, 20; Obinna Ike, 30; Nnamdi Desmond, 28; Odibendi, 20; Emmanuel Onyema, 26; Omalico Eric, 23; Duru Ifeanyi, 23; Diamond Zikora, 26; Charles Chukwuma, 28; Ikem Vincent, 20; Okeke Chibuzo, 23; and Izunna Okoye, 24.
Ikenga said preliminary interrogation allegedly revealed that the suspects were affiliated with the Vikings Confraternity, also known as “Bagger.”
He added that the investigation had also extended to allegations of unlawful and immoral activities reportedly carried out at the hideouts.
“Operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit acting on credible information arrested 17 male suspects allegedly linked to cult-related activities and other acts considered contrary to public morality at some identified hideouts in Awka,” the statement read.
Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, reiterated that cultism, drug abuse and all forms of criminality capable of undermining public peace would not be tolerated in the state.
The police said a full-scale investigation had commenced to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement in cult-related activities and other criminal offences.
Cult-related violence has remained a major security concern in parts of Anambra, with authorities repeatedly launching operations aimed at dismantling criminal gangs and reducing youth involvement in violent groups.
Residents in Awka have also raised concerns over the increasing use of isolated buildings and private apartments by suspected cult members for gatherings and illegal activities.
Police authorities assured residents that security operations across the state would continue as investigations into the latest arrests progress.
