The Abia State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on cult-related activities with the arrest of 17 suspected cultists linked to recent violent incidents in the state.
The police said the operation followed a series of intelligence-led investigations into rising cult violence, particularly in Aba, where several deadly attacks have sparked concern among residents.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, the suspects, all males between the ages of 18 and 28, were arrested at different locations while allegedly gathering at meeting points and preparing for further criminal operations.
The Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, disclosed that the arrests were carried out by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) following recent attacks believed to be connected to cult groups.
The police linked the suspects to incidents that occurred in May, including the killing of a young man who was reportedly shot and attacked with machetes by suspected cultists along Brass Road in Aba.
Another attack reportedly took place near Opobo Junction, where a young man was shot by suspected cult members, further heightening fears over cult-related violence in the commercial city.
During the operation, police recovered several items believed to have been used by the suspects.
The exhibits recovered include five locally made guns, three live rounds of ammunition, 13 mobile phones, two cutlasses, an axe and a black beret suspected to be associated with cult activities.
Authorities revealed that investigations into the matter have been concluded and the suspects are set to be charged to court.
Speaking on the development, Commissioner Isa reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
He warned that cultism, violent crimes and other criminal activities would not be tolerated in Abia, stressing that security agencies would continue to pursue anyone involved in unlawful acts.
The police boss also assured residents that there would be no safe haven for criminal elements operating within the state.
Beyond arrests and enforcement, the command said it is also strengthening public awareness campaigns through its Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices initiative.
The programme is aimed at educating young people about the dangers of cultism and discouraging involvement in criminal activities.
Residents were urged to support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements, criminal gatherings and other activities capable of threatening public peace.
Cult-related violence has remained a recurring challenge in some parts of Abia State, especially in Aba, where clashes between rival groups have occasionally resulted in deaths, injuries and destruction of property.
Police authorities say ongoing intelligence-driven operations will continue as part of efforts to restore safety and curb criminal activities across the state.
Source: PUNCH Metro
