The police command in Anambra has arrested 13 suspects in separate operations and recovered firearms, ammunition, charms, cult-related insignias, suspected illicit drugs, dangerous weapons and a stolen vehicle.

In a statement on Tuesday, the command’s spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, said operatives raided a suspected criminal hideout and arrested Somtochukwu Ezeibe, 20.

“Acting on credible intelligence, operatives raided a suspected criminal hideout around Coca-Cola Market, Okpoko, and arrested Somtochukwu Ezeibe, male, aged 20 years,” he said.

He stated that one locally made double-barrel pistol, one live cartridge and charms were recovered from the suspect.

According to him, a follow-up search conducted at Ezeibe’s residence led to the recovery of a Vikings Confraternity beret and peak cap.

“Preliminary investigation revealed alleged involvement in cult-related activities, while the suspect provided information that assisted the police in identifying other persons allegedly connected with the group,” Mr Ikenga said.

Other suspects, including Chinonso Njoku, Tochukwu Ogbonna, Chidiebere Anokwuru, Chidera Nwakpa, Nweke Chibuike, Somadina Otubo, Chibueze Ikechukwu and Obum James, were arrested on Monday.

He noted that the suspects had been transferred to the Anti-Cult Unit for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Mr Ikenga said that on Sunday, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, in collaboration with Agunechemba Vigilante, Onitsha Sector, arrested four suspects in connection with an alleged conspiracy and armed robbery.

The suspects are Dennis Ngwu, Elvis Udo Effiong, Femi Adekoya and Chijioke Obinozie.

He noted that large quantities of suspected illicit substances were recovered from the suspects.

“Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspects are allegedly members of a six-man gang suspected of robbing shuttle bus operators at gunpoint and diverting company goods within Onitsha. The suspects reportedly made statements implicating themselves in the alleged offences, including the diversion of goods valued at approximately ₦40 million,” he said.