Police arrest 17 suspected cultists in Anambra

The Anambra State Police Command has conducted a raid on various hideouts across the state, leading to the arrest of 17 male suspects. These individuals are allegedly linked to cult-related activities and other actions deemed disruptive to public order. The operation was carried out by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit, acting on credible intelligence.

During the raid, authorities recovered several items from the suspects, including dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis sativa, containers of petroleum jelly, and condoms. These exhibits are considered relevant to the ongoing investigation into the alleged activities. Preliminary interrogations suggest the suspects are affiliated with the Vikings Confraternity, also known as “Bagger.”

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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 Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has strongly reiterated the command's commitment to combating cultism, drug abuse, and all forms of criminality that threaten public peace and societal values. A full-scale investigation is underway to determine the extent of the suspects' involvement in cult activities and any other potential criminal offenses. The police have assured the public that further developments will be communicated.

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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.