The Anambra State Police Command says it has intensified efforts to tackle rising cases of cultism, drug abuse, and other social vices threatening the peace of the state.
The command announced the arrest of 54 suspects, including 39 males and 15 females, in a series of raid operations, while also recovering a large cache of drugs and other incriminating items.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a press briefing on behalf of Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu, expressed worry over what he described as “increasing cases of moral decay” among the youth, particularly those between the ages of 18 and 26.
He recalled past incidents, including cases where young people conspired to stage their own kidnappings to extort money from their families.
“Not long ago, the Command arrested a young lady who conspired with her boyfriend to fake her own kidnapping and extorted ₦3 million from her parents. In another case, a couple staged a similar abduction and collected ₦1 million after an initial demand of ₦10 million was reduced,” the statement noted.
The Command also cited cult-related violence such as the indiscriminate shooting at a burial ceremony in Ezi-Ogidi, Idemili North LGA, which left four people dead and 15 others critically injured.
“These acts are unacceptable and partly stem from the declining levels of parental supervision and guidance. We must collectively address this menace before it grows worse,” the PPRO stressed.
In its ongoing operations, the police have adopted both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, ranging from surveillance and patrols to raids on drug hideouts. According to the Command, drug abuse remains a key driver of violent crime and cult activities.
On September 12, 2025, operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) arrested 25-year-old Chiderah Obochi along Old Onitsha–Awka Road, Ifitedunu. He was caught with quantities of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis. Upon interrogation, Obochi confessed to being a drug courier and led operatives to a house in Umudioka Village, Dunukofia LGA, linked to one Ginika Okeke. Although Okeke was not at home, police recovered 11 bags filled with cannabis sativa.
Ikenga confirmed that the drugs would be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.
In another operation on September 14, 2025, police raided a known black spot in Ogidi, Idemili North LGA, where suspected cultists reportedly gathered. The raid led to the arrest of 53 suspects (38 males and 15 females) who are currently undergoing screening and profiling.
The Command reassured residents of Anambra that it remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property, while ensuring the state remains secure for law-abiding citizens.
“On behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, the Command hereby reassures Ndi Anambra of her unwavering commitment to restoring sanity, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that the State remains safe for all,” Ikenga said.
He urged parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to play stronger roles in mentoring the youth and curbing the spread of cultism and drug abuse.
