LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Anambra State unit of the Nigeria Police Force has stepped up efforts to tackle crime, carrying out a raid on a known criminal hideout in Eze-Allah, Enugwu-Ukwu, located in Njikoka Local Government Area.
During the operation on Thursday, April 16, police arrested eight male suspects believed to be involved in cult activities.
Officers also recovered different quantities of suspected Cannabis Sativa and other illegal and harmful drugs from the scene.
The Anambra Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development in a statement released on Saturday.
He explained that the raid was carried out by operatives from the Special Anti-Cult Unit in Enugwu-Ukwu after receiving credible intelligence.
“Police operatives attached to the Special Anti-Cult Unit, Enugwu-Ukwu, acting on credible information, carried out the operation in the evening of April 16, 2026. During the raid, eight suspects linked to cult-related activities were arrested, and various quantities of suspected Cannabis Sativa and other dangerous drugs were recovered,” the statement read.
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The suspects were identified as 27-year-old Chidalu Nwafor, 24-year-old Chiemerie Nwazueje, 25-year-old Chima Arwuike, 26-year-old Jideobi Emeka, the youngest Oliver Okonkwo, and Izuchukwu Christian both 18-year-old, 21-year-old Onyebuchi, and the oldest, 44-year-old Walter Idouzour.
Meanwhile, the police command raised concern over the growing link between illegal drug use and crime, especially among young people involved in cult groups.
“The Command notes that the prevalence of illicit drugs remains a major enabler of crime and criminality, particularly among youth groups involved in cult-related activities,” Ikenga stated.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of continuous police action and support from the public to fight drug abuse and related crimes.
“The suspects are currently undergoing profiling and investigation, after which they will be charged in court accordingly. The Command reassures Ndi Anambra of its commitment to sustaining ongoing operations aimed at dislodging criminal elements across the State and ensuring the safety and security of all residents,” the statement added.
Authorities say the operation reflects ongoing efforts to restore order in affected communities while warning that similar crackdowns will continue across the state.
