Operation Puff Police Unit of the Anambra State Police Command on Sunday recorded its first breakthrough with the arrest of 15 suspected cultists during their initiation in a forest in Ukwulu, Dunukofia Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects, who allegedly belong to Aiye confraternity, were arrested around 12:45 a.m. following credible intelligence report that some cultists were initiating new members.

A statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Haruna Mohammed, reads in part: “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 Ukwulu 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 on the same date at about 04:45am similar exercise also took place at Mbaukwu in Awka South LGA where four male suspects were equally arrested and exhibits recovered include one dagger, one axe, charms and substance suspected to be cannabis sativa.

The PPRO said that all suspects have confessed to be members of Aiye confraternity.

He disclosed that, in yet another development, one Anene Chekwube aged 24 years, a notorious cultist who specialises in burglary and stealing, was arrested at Mbaukwu and motorcycle spare parts were recovered in his possession.

“Suspect confessed that he burgled a shop at Ezinifite and Osumenyi in Nnewi South LGA same date at about 06:45am and stole the items,” the PPRO said.

He disclosed that 12 other notorious male suspected cultists were arrested from their hideouts at various locations and they all confessed to belonging to SVC secret cult group.

Mohammed added that all cases are under investigation after which suspects would be charged to court for prosecution.

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