Police warn cultists, arrest 17 suspects in Abia

The Abia State Police Command has issued a stern warning against cultism and other criminal activities, announcing the arrest of 17 suspected cultists. The suspects, all males aged between 18 and 28, were apprehended following a recent surge in cult-related violence across the state.

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Following the recent upsurge in cult-related activities in the State, including the attack on 13/05/2026 at No. 29 Brass Road, Aba, where a young man was shot and macheted to death by a group of suspected cultists; and the attack on 24/05/2026 at Ehere, near Opobo Junction, where another young man was shot by suspected cultists.

During the operation, police recovered several exhibits, including five short guns, three live ammunition, thirteen mobile phones, two cutlasses, an axe, and a black beret. These arrests are linked to recent incidents, including an attack on May 13, 2026, where a young man was shot and macheted to death in Aba, and another attack on May 24, 2026, near Opobo Junction, where a young man was shot by suspected cultists.

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The suspects were arrested at their various meeting points and while en route to perpetrate further crimes and the above-listed exhibits were recovered from them. Investigation has been concluded and the suspects are being charged to court.

Commissioner of Police Danladi Isa reiterated the command's commitment to protecting lives and property, stating there will be no hiding place for criminals. The police are intensifying intelligence-led operations and public awareness campaigns, such as the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), to discourage youth involvement in cult activities and curb related crimes, particularly in commercial hubs like Aba where clashes have led to fatalities and property destruction.

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there will be no hiding place for cultism and other criminal activities in the state.