By Izunna Okafor, Awka
As part of ongoing security operations aimed at guaranteeing a peaceful atmosphere before, during, and after the forthcoming Anambra Governorship Election, security operatives have arrested seven suspected cultists alleged to be undergoing initiation ahead of election-related violence.
According to a press release by the Anambra State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the suspects were apprehended in the early hours of Sunday, October 26, 2025, during a coordinated raid by operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS), Enugu-Ukwu, in collaboration with Agunechemba Vigilante operatives. The operation, he said, took place inside a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, in Njikoka Local Government Area of the state.
Recovered at the scene were several incriminating items believed to have been used for the initiation rituals, including a 25-litre keg containing a red liquid substance, red ritual cloths, two wooden drums, and footwear belonging to the suspects and their accomplices.
The arrested suspects, all male, were identified as Ugorji Emmanuel (29 years), Ogamba Chinuike Anthony (22 years), Chibuzor Agudiegu (25 years), Destiny Okasi (22 years), Udewulu Nzube (19 years), Ifeanyi Anikpe (21 years), and Sunday Akuma (20 years).
Preliminary investigations, according to the PPRO, indicate that the initiation ceremony was part of a wider process of recruiting and preparing the suspects for political thuggery and other criminal activities planned for the governorship election within the Njikoka and Anaocha local government areas.
The Police Spokesman said upon sighting the approaching operatives, the suspects attempted to flee the scene but were promptly pursued and arrested after a swift and coordinated chase by the operatives.
Reacting, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc mnips PhD, ordered a discreet investigation to identify and apprehend other fleeing members of the group and to dismantle any existing cult networks within the area. The CP reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining peace and ensuring credible elections across Anambra State.
He further warned that the Police would not tolerate any act capable of breaching public order, particularly cultism, political thuggery, or electoral violence. The Police boss urged parents, community leaders, and youth groups to intensify efforts in guiding young people away from criminal activities, stressing that the long arm of the law would catch up with anyone attempting to undermine peace and security in the state.
The Command also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence that could aid in preventing crime and arresting criminal elements.
The Command noted that investigations are ongoing, adding that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of the inquiry.
