Operatives of the Anambra state Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the Nigeria Police Force have arrested 17 male suspects allegedly connected to cult-related activities and other illegal activities.
Tochukwu Ikenga, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), stated on Sunday that the suspects were caught after being tracked down to a hideaway in Awka based on reliable intelligence.
According to the PPRO, condoms, canisters of petroleum jelly, some dried leaves thought to be Cannabis sativa, and other items deemed pertinent to the current investigation were among the materials recovered from them.
He listed the suspects, which include 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; and Emmanuel Onyema, 26.
Others were Omalico Eric, 23; Duru Ifeanyi, 23; Diamond Zikora, 26; Charles Chukwuma, 28; Ikem Vincent, 20; Okeke Chibuzo, 23; and Izunna Okoye, 24.
He also disclosed that the suspects’ affiliation with the Vikings Confraternity, a cult known as “Bagger”, was revealed during their initial questioning.
Ikenga said, “The investigation is also extending to allegations of unlawful and immoral activities reportedly carried out at the location.”
In order to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement in cult-related activities and other potential criminal offences, he continued, the command has started a comprehensive inquiry into the situation.
In response to the occurrence, CP Ikioye Orutugu, the state commissioner of police, reaffirmed that Anambra State will not allow drug addiction, cultism, or any other criminal activity that could jeopardise public order or social values.
