The Anambra State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the fight against crime with the arrest of seven suspected cultists and armed robbers in Awka, the state capital.
Alongside the arrests, law enforcement officers recovered a cut-size double barrel gun, a tricycle without a registration number, and a quantity of hard drugs.
The suspects were identified as Chukwuemka Ozoekwe (18 years), Chidozie Anagor (18 years), Chukwuemeka Oyeoka (18 years), Ebuka Okoye (17 years), Olisa Obi (19 years), Chidubem Nwakwu (20 years), and Nwankwo Kosisochukwu.
According to the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the arrests were made by police operatives attached to the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) during a patrol at the popular Unizik Junction in Awka. The officers intercepted a tricycle carrying five occupants, including the driver, and attempted to question them.
However, upon being approached by the security operatives, the occupants fled the scene, leading to the apprehension of Chukwuemka Ozoekwe.
Further investigation led to the arrest of Chidozie Anagor and Chukwuemeka Oyeoka, followed by the subsequent apprehension of Ebuka Okoye, Olisa Obi, Chidubem Nwakwu, and Nwankwo Kosisochukwu.
During interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of the Vipers cult group and admitted to engaging in criminal activities, including armed robbery. They disclosed that their recent mission was to rob road users of their phones and personal belongings before being apprehended by the police.
Acting Commissioner of Police, DCP Fidelis Ogarabe, commended the efforts of the police operatives and urged them to sustain their efforts in combating crime in the state. He assured the people of Anambra that the confidence reposed in the police and other security agencies would not be taken for granted.
The Acting CP further directed that the suspects be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigations, reaffirming the commitment of the police to ensuring the safety and security of residents in Anambra State.