Anambra Operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) acting on credible information arrested 17 (seventeen) male suspects allegedly linked to cult-related activities and other acts considered contrary to public morality at an identified hideout in Awka in the early hours of today, 24th May 2026. Items recovered from the suspects include some dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, containers of petroleum jelly, condoms, and other exhibits considered relevant to the ongoing investigation.

The suspects include: Okeke Ugochukwu, 28 years; Okoro Christian 17; Goodluck Michael, 25; Amuche Michael, 24; Ojukwu Divine, 26; Ikechukwu Chimeremeze, 20; Obinna Ike, 30; Nnamdi Desmond, 28; Odibendi, 20; Emmanuel Onyema, 26; Omalico Eric, 23; Duru Ifeanyi, 23; Diamond Zikora, 26; Charles Chukwuma, 28; Ikem Vincent, 20; Okeke Chibuzo, 23; and Izunna Okoye, 24 years respectively.

Preliminary interrogation of the suspects allegedly revealed their affiliation with the Vikings Confraternity, also known as “Bagger”. The investigation is also extending to allegations of unlawful and immoral activities reportedly carried out at the location. The Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc mnips PhD, reiterates that cultism, drug abuse, and all forms of criminality or acts capable of undermining public peace and societal values will not be tolerated in the State.

The Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the matter to ascertain the extent of the involvement of the suspects in cult-related activities and other possible criminal offences.

Further developments will be communicated accordingly.

SP Tochukwu Ikenga
Police Public Relations Officer
Anambra State Police Command
Awka.