The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four suspected cultists during an operation in Nkpor community, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were arrested by operatives of the Special Anti Cult Squad attached to the Obosi Sector, working with a local vigilante group, following credible intelligence.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the operation followed the recovery of a suspected stolen vehicle abandoned at Akuzo Nkpor.
According to him, the suspects are Hampo Chidiebere, 20, Chinonso Edeh, 22, Chinedu Agu, 21, and Abuchi Anigbogu, 18.
Ikenga said the arrests were part of the ongoing implementation of the security strategy introduced by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, aimed at strengthening safety across the state.
“The implementation of the 2026 strategic operational positioning by the Commissioner of Police has begun to yield positive results,” Ikenga said.
He explained that the suspects were arrested in the early hours of January 25, following intelligence reports linking them to cult related activities within the Nkpor axis.
“During interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of the Barger Confraternity, a cult group alleged to be terrorising Nkpor community and its surrounding areas,” the statement added.
Ikenga disclosed that the operatives also recovered a green Honda Pilot Jeep, suspiciously parked within the area, noting that blood stains were found inside the vehicle.
“A thorough search was conducted on the vehicle with registration number KSF 671 BG. Blood stains were observed inside, prompting its recovery for further investigation,” he said.
The police spokesperson said efforts had been intensified to track down other members of the cult group and recover weapons used in their operations.
He assured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, adding that further updates would be provided as investigations continue.
