Police operatives in Anambra State have reported the recovery of four bodies of suspected cultists.
According to a statement from SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Anambra State Police Command, officers from the Nimo Police Station responded to a distress call on Sunday at 8:25 PM regarding a suspected cult clash in Umuka, Nawfia.
Upon arriving at the scene, the officers discovered four lifeless young men lying on the road in a pool of blood, appearing to have sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
A doctor on duty later confirmed the victims’ deaths, and their bodies were subsequently taken to the morgue.
The deceased were identified as Ebuka Nwaonkwube Ekenta from Mmimi village, Nnatuanya Junior A.K.A A Starboy from Mmimi village, Aniemena A.K.A Osama from Umuariam Village, and Ahmed Auwal.
Eyewitness accounts and local villagers indicated that the victims were known for their criminal activities and often clashed with another cult group in the area.
The statement noted that joint patrols with operatives from the Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SPACS) have been intensified in the region.
In a separate incident, Commissioner of Police Nnaghe Obono Itam has ordered an immediate investigation into the brutal murder of a 17-year-old girl suspected of being a victim of ritualistic practices.
The girl’s body was discovered in a bush at Omasi village on October 6, 2024, at 4:25 PM. She was later identified as Chinasa Adigwe from Umueje village, with her private parts severed prior to the police being notified. Her body has been recovered and taken to the morgue.
The Commissioner extended condolences to the family, friends, and community of the deceased, assuring that the police will do everything possible to apprehend those responsible for this horrific act and ensure justice is served.
Additionally, the command reported that they thwarted an abduction attempt of a foreigner by suspected armed secessionists in Ogbunka village.
Although the operatives engaged the assailants in a gun battle and successfully rescued the foreigner, two officers sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation.
“Unfortunately, during the gun duel, two Police Operatives who were hit by bullet escaped with the foreigner. They are stable and are currently receiving treatment in a hospital.
Meanwhile, operations are ongoing in the area for the possible arrest of the Armed men.