The Abia State Police Command has arrested 17 suspected cultists in a major operation aimed at tackling the growing menace of cult-related violence in the state.
The suspects, all males aged between 18 and 28, were apprehended by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) following intelligence-driven investigations into recent violent incidents in Aba and its environs.
According to the command, the operation was launched in response to a series of cult clashes and attacks that have raised security concerns among residents. Police said some of the suspects were arrested at alleged cult meeting points, while others were intercepted while allegedly on their way to carry out criminal activities.
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Items recovered during the operation included five guns, three rounds of live ammunition, 13 mobile phones of different brands, two cutlasses, an axe, and a black beret believed to be linked to cult activities.
Police authorities disclosed that the suspects are being investigated for their alleged involvement in recent attacks, including incidents that resulted in the death and injury of victims in parts of Aba.
The command stated that investigations have been concluded and the suspects will be charged in court accordingly.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the police assured residents that efforts to rid Abia State of cultism and other violent crimes would continue, warning criminal elements that there would be no safe haven for them within the state.
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