Operatives of the Imo State Police Command, in synergy with the State Security Organization, have arrested a suspected cultist and recovered from him, a firearm in Nekede, Owerri West LGA.
The arrest, according to the Command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, followed credible intelligence on suspicious movements along Old Nekede Road in the early hours of March 21, 2026.
Okoye said that acting swiftly on the intelligence, the Operatives mobilized to the scene and apprehended one Bright Chidi, a 26-year-old male.
One locally made single-barrel pistol and one live cartridge were recovered from him.
The police spokesperson, hinted that during preliminary interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the Vikings Confraternity, a cult group linked to violent criminal activities within the area.
He stated that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, for consolidation of investigation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
“To this end, the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, has ordered a sustained intelligence-led crackdown on criminal elements across the state and urges residents to support the police and other security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance public safety,” Okoye added.
Police arrest suspected cultist with pistol, live cartridge in Imo