The Abia State Police Command has apprehended 17 individuals suspected of being cultists in connection with the brutal murder of two young men in Aba. The arrests were confirmed by the command's spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka, in a statement released on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
Details of the Arrests
According to DSP Chinaka, the suspects, aged between 18 and 28 years, were taken into custody by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU). This operation was prompted by a recent surge in cult-related violence across the state.
Incidents Leading to the Arrests
The first incident occurred on May 13, 2026, at No. 29 Brass Road, Aba, where a young man was shot and hacked to death by a group of suspected cultists. The second incident took place on May 24, 2026, at Ehere, near Opobo Junction, where another young man was fatally shot by suspected cult members.
Recovered Items
The police recovered several items from the suspects, including five short guns, three live rounds of ammunition, thirteen mobile phones of various makes, cutlasses, one axe, and one black beret. These items are believed to be linked to the criminal activities of the group.
Police Action and Commitment
DSP Chinaka emphasized that the arrests were made possible through actionable intelligence. The VCRU operatives successfully apprehended the 17 suspects at their meeting points and while they were en route to commit further crimes. The investigation has been concluded, and the suspects are being charged to court.
The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, reiterated the command's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property. He assured residents that there would be no safe haven for cultism and other criminal activities in the state.
Community Engagement
The command continues its awareness campaign through the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) unit in schools and communities. Members of the public are advised to report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or via the command's emergency hotlines: 08035415405, 08079210004, 08079210005, 08079210006. Together, we keep Abia safe.
