The Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) of the Anambra State Police Command says it has arrested 17 suspects allegedly involved in cult activities in Awka.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement to journalists on Sunday in Awka.

He said that operatives of the VCRU arrested 17 male suspects allegedly linked to cult-related activities and other acts contrary to public morality, while acting on credible intelligence.

“They were arrested at an identified hideout in Awka in the early hours of today,” he said.

Mr Ikenga said that items recovered from the suspects included some dried leaves suspected to be cannabis sativa, containers of petroleum jelly, condoms, among other exhibits.

He said that preliminary interrogations revealed their affiliation with the vikings confraternity, a k a “Bagger.”

The PPRO noted that investigation also extended to allegations of immoral activities reportedly carried out at the location.

He quoted the state Commissioner of Police (CP) Ikioye Orutugu, as saying that cultism, drug abuse, and all forms of criminality would not be tolerated in the state.

Mr Ikenga said that investigations were ongoing to ascertain their level of involvement in the crime. 

(NAN)