The Anambra State Police Command has intensified its efforts to combat the rise of cult-related violence in the state capital, Awka. This action resulted in the arrest of 16 suspected cultists and the declaration of 21 others as wanted individuals.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, released a statement in Awka on Saturday, detailing the recent operation. He highlighted the “intensified efforts” undertaken by the police to tackle the resurgence of cult killings.
The statement revealed that police, acting on intelligence, were able to track down and arrest no fewer than 16 “notorious cultists” allegedly involved in violent activities within Awka.
Authorities haven’t stopped with the initial arrests. An additional 21 suspected cultists are now considered wanted by the Anambra State Police Command. A “manhunt” is underway to apprehend these individuals.
According to SP Ikenga, the arrested suspects are currently in police custody under the orders of Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye. The Commissioner has also directed the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) to redouble their efforts in locating and apprehending the remaining wanted individuals.
Beyond police action, Commissioner Adeoye emphasized the importance of community involvement. He called upon religious and community leaders to actively speak out against the dangers of cultism and its negative impact on society.pen_spark