The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old man, Bright Adiene, over the suspected cult-related killing of Nnamdi Okeke in Owerri, the state capital.
The incident was reported on Saturday, October 17, 2026, according to the police.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed that the suspect was in custody, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend another suspect identified as Anyima.
He stated that investigations were underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the killing and identify other individuals who may have been involved.
The arrest comes amid reports of renewed violence between rival cult groups in Owerri, following the killing of a suspected cult leader by a rival group weeks earlier. However, a direct connection between the earlier incident and the latest killing has not been independently established.
In response to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, CP Audu Bosso, convened a security meeting on Sunday, October 18, with area commanders, divisional police officers and tactical team commanders to review the security situation and strengthen crime-prevention efforts.
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The police commissioner directed officers to intensify intelligence-led operations, carry out targeted raids on identified criminal hideouts, increase patrols in security-prone areas and respond swiftly to emerging threats.
The command also called for stronger collaboration with community leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to improve intelligence gathering and prevent further violence.
Parents and guardians were urged to monitor their children’s activities and associations, discourage involvement in cultism and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The police warned that anyone found culpable in cult-related violence would face the full consequences of the law.
Residents were advised to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while providing credible information that could assist the ongoing investigation.
Members of the public with useful information were encouraged to contact the nearest police station or call 0803 477 3600.
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