The suspects were apprehended during an initiation ritual in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, following a joint operation by operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS), Enugu-Ukwu, and Agunechemba Vigilante Operatives in the early hours of Sunday, 26th October 2025.
The suspects were apprehended during an initiation ceremony in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area, in the early hours of 26th October 2025.
Items recovered at the scene include a 25-litre keg containing a red liquid substance, a red ritual cloth, two wooden drums, and footwear belonging to the suspects and other fleeing accomplices.
Those arrested are:
1. Ugorji Emmanuel (29 years)
2. Ogamba Chinuike Anthony (22 years)
3. Chibuzor Agudiegu (25 years)
4. Destiny Okasi (22 years)
5. Udewulu Nzube (19 years)
6. Ifeanyi Anikpe (21 years)
7. Sunday Akuma (20 years)
Preliminary investigation indicates that the initiation was part of a wider plan to recruit and groom members for election-related thuggery in Njikoka and Anaocha Local Government Areas. The suspects attempted to flee upon sighting security operatives but were swiftly apprehended after a coordinated pursuit.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, has reiterated that the Command will not tolerate any activities capable of threatening peace and public safety, particularly in the build-up to the forthcoming election.
He urged parents, community leaders, and youth groups to intensify moral guidance and discourage involvement in cultism or political violence, while calling on residents to continue providing credible information that can assist the Police in preventing crime and apprehending criminal elements.