In a significant crackdown on criminal activities, the Anambra State Police Command announced the arrest of seven individuals suspected of involvement in cultism and armed robbery. The operation, conducted on the night of April 3rd, 2024, at 10 pm, resulted in the apprehension of the suspects and the recovery of a cut-size double-barrel gun, a tricycle lacking registration details, and narcotics.

The arrested individuals are identified as Chukwuemka Ozoekwe (18), Chidozie Anagor (18), Chukwuemeka Oyeoka (18), Ebuka Okoye (17), Olisa Obi (19), Chidubem Nwakwu (20), and Nwankwo Kosisochukwu. However, two suspects, Makuo Nwosu alias “Baby” and an unnamed accomplice, remain at large and are the subject of an ongoing manhunt.

The arrest was made by police operatives attached to the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) during a patrol at Unizik Junction. Upon intercepting a tricycle with five occupants, the individuals attempted to flee, but Chukwuemka Ozoekwe was successfully apprehended. Subsequently, Ozoekwe led the police to the hideout of his accomplices, resulting in the arrest of Chidozie Anagor and Chukwuemeka Oyeoka, while others managed to escape.

During interrogation, the suspects confessed to belonging to the Vipers Cult group and admitted to their involvement in recent criminal activities plaguing the Awka metropolis. They confessed to planning a robbery targeting road users for their personal belongings before their apprehension.

In response to the successful operation, Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration and acting Commissioner of Police, DCP Fidelis Ogarabe PSC MNIPS, commended the operatives for their diligence and urged them to maintain the momentum in combating crime in the state. He reassured the public of the commitment of the police and other security agencies to safeguarding lives and property in Anambra State.

The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, as directed by the Anambra State Police Command.