The Enugu State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on violent crimes and cult-related activities, leading to the arrest of six suspects and the recovery of firearms, hard drugs, and other incriminating items in separate sting operations.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, on Thursday, the arrests were described as a result of the Command’s ongoing tactical operations to dismantle criminal networks across the state.
According to the statement, at around 5:00 am on August 22, operatives from the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad apprehended four male suspects identified as Samuel Chisom Okpubo (23), Steven Agwu (26), Elijah Umah (27) and Ifenre Ifebuche (22).
During the arrest, police recovered a firearm, an expended cartridge, substances suspected to be methamphetamine (locally known as “Mkpuru-miri”), and other illicit items.
Their arrest followed the earlier detention and confession of Uzor Okwudili (23), who was picked up by the Abakpa Police Division over allegations of cultism, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Preliminary investigations revealed that two of the suspects are linked to the Black Axe Confraternity, while the others admitted membership in the Vikings Confraternity.
In a related development, on August 19 at approximately 6:30 pm, the same tactical unit, working in coordination with the Neighbourhood Watch Group, stormed Ogor-Affa in Udi Local Government Area.
They arrested Emehelu Nichodemus, popularly known as “SP Fado” (48), a suspected member of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity.
A locally made pistol was recovered from him. He also confessed to his involvement in cult-related activities.
Reacting to the successful operations, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mamman Bitrus Giwa commended the operatives and reiterated the Command’s dedication to eradicating criminal elements from the state.
He called on residents to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and proactive in supporting the police by reporting suspicious activities. Citizens are encouraged to reach out through the following emergency lines: 08032003702, 08086671202, 112 (State Command-and-Control Centre), 09134666668 and 09134448093.
“We will not relent in our efforts to restore safety and order across Enugu. These arrests show our resolve to disrupt cult networks and rid our communities of crime,” the Commissioner stated.
