17 suspected cultists arrested in Anambra

Monday, May 25, 2026 - The Anambra State Police Command has raided several hideouts and spots across the state, arresting 17 male suspects for alleged cult-related activities and other acts that constitute public disturbance.

During the raid carried out by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit of the command, items such as dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis sativa, containers of petroleum jelly, condoms, and other exhibits considered relevant to the investigation were recovered from the suspects.

This was disclosed in a press statement issued on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, adding that the raid was carried out through credible information.

The statement read in part, “Anambra 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 in the early hours of today, May 24, 2026.

“Items recovered from the suspects include some dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, containers of petroleum jelly, condoms, and other exhibits considered relevant to the ongoing investigation.

“The suspects include Okeke Ugochukwu, 28 years; 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 years, respectively.

According to Ikenga, preliminary interrogation of the suspects allegedly revealed their affiliation with the Vikings Confraternity, also known as “Bagger”.

He said the investigation is also extending to allegations of unlawful and immoral activities reportedly carried out at the location.

He added that the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, reiterated that cultism, drug abuse, and all forms of criminality or acts capable of undermining public peace and societal values will not be tolerated in the state.

“The command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the matter to ascertain the extent of the involvement of the suspects in cult-related activities and other possible criminal offences.

“Further developments will be communicated accordingly,” the statement added.