Police Arrest 34 Suspected Cultists in Akwa Ibom

The police in Akwa Ibom State announced it has arrested 34 suspected cultists in the state.

The Police Spokesperson in Akwa Ibom State, CSP Nnudam Fredrick, disclosed this in a press statement released on Friday in Uyo, the state capital.

He said 34 suspected cultists were arrested after the police stormed and raided black spots in Uruan Local Government, Ibom Plaza and 101 Estate in the Uyo Local Government Area.

He revealed that following the recent ban on cultism in the state by the Governor, the Commissioner of Police, Emohimi Edgal directed Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to comb their areas thoroughly and clamp down on cultists and their activities.

He said: “The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State, reiterates that in the coming days, additional bites would be given to the law against cultism.”

“In that regard, he has enjoined the Area Commanders, DPOs and Tactical teams to intensify the fight while the State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) personnel are to infiltrate these groups to identify the members and sponsors for possible arrest and prosecution,” he added.

He also called on Akwa Ibom residents, to support the Police in the fight against cultism, for the common good.

Following a recent resurgence of cult activities and restiveness in the state, Gov. Udom Emmanuel, on Monday, signed the ‘Cultism and Other Violent Behaviour (Prohibition) Order 2020.’

The new law banned the recognition and operations of 65 cult groups and other secret societies in Akwa Ibom state, with effect from 16th March 2020.