By Karen James
The Anambra State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the rising cases of cultism, drug abuse, and other unacceptable societal vices in the state, following a series of decisive operations that led to the arrest of 54 suspects and the recovery of a large quantity of hard drugs.
According to the Command, disturbing trends among youths aged between 18 and 26 have continued to pose serious challenges despite past breakthroughs in crime fighting. Notable among these are cult-related attacks, fake kidnapping cases, and drug-related crimes.
The Command recalled two shocking incidents of self-orchestrated kidnappings. In one case, a young woman conspired with her boyfriend to fake her abduction, demanding ₦10 million from her parents before eventually collecting ₦3 million. In another, a couple in a similar scheme extorted ₦1 million after initially demanding ₦10 million.
Cult-related violence has also resurfaced, highlighted by the attack on mourners at a burial in Ezi-Ogidi, Idemili North LGA, where suspected cultists opened fire, killing four people and leaving 15 others injured.
Describing these acts as “unacceptable and deeply troubling,” the Command attributed the trend partly to declining parental supervision and inadequate guidance for young people.
As part of its intensified efforts, operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Chiderah Obochi, along the Old Onitsha/Awka Road in Ifitedunu on September 12, 2025. A search revealed quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp.
Obochi confessed to being a drug runner and led operatives to Umudioka Village in Dunukofia LGA, where 11 bags of Cannabis Sativa were recovered from the residence of one Ginika Okeke, who remains at large. The seized substances will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
In another operation on September 14, 2025, police raided a notorious black spot at Ogidi, Idemili North LGA, where cultists reportedly converged for criminal planning. A total of 53 suspects were arrested—38 males and 15 females. They are currently undergoing screening and profiling, with those found culpable set to face prosecution.
Spokesperson for the Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the operations form part of both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, ranging from surveillance and targeted raids to inviting suspected cult members for questioning. He emphasized that drug abuse is a major driver of violent crimes and must be confronted head-on.
On behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, the Command reassured Ndi Anambra of its unwavering commitment to restoring sanity, safeguarding lives and property, and ensuring that the state remains secure for all law-abiding residents.
