Men of the Anambra State police command have arrested 19 suspected members of a cult group during an initiation exercise in the state.
The cultists were holding an initiation ceremony for new members when the men of the command, acting on a tip-off swooped on them.
Police spokesperson in the state, SP Haruna Mohammed who disclosed this in a press release to journalists said dangerous weapons were recovered from the suspects.
He said, “On the 12/5/2019 at about 12:45am, following credible intelligence report that some suspected cultists were initiating new members into their secret cult group at ukulu forest in Dunukofia LGA of Anambra State, Police operatives comprising of Special Anti Cult unit (SPACS) and “operation Puff Adder” stormed the bush and arrested 15 male suspects while undergoing initiation into Aiye confraternity.
“Exhibits recovered at the scene include regalia of Ayes secret cult, drum and Charms of different categories, Four knives and empty shell of expended cartridge.
” In a related development still on the same date at about 04:45 am similar exercise also took place at Mbaukwu in Awka South LGA where four (4 )male suspects were equally arrested and exhibits recovered include One dagger, one axe, charms and substance suspected to be cannabis sativa.
“Meanwhile, all suspects confessed to being members of secret cult known as Ayes confraternity.
“Furthermore, one Anene Chekwube ‘m’ aged 24 years, a notorious cultist who specializes in burglary/ Stealing was also arrested at Mbaukwu and motorcycle spare parts were recovered in his possession.
“Suspect confessed that he burgled a shop at Ezinifite/Osumenyi in Nnewi South LGA same date at about 06:45am and stole the items.
“Consequently, 12 other notorious male Suspected cultists were arrested from their hideouts at various locations and they all confessed belonging to SVC secret cult group. All cases are under investigation after which suspects would be charged to Court for prosecution.”
