The police command in Rivers says it arrested two suspected fake pastors found in possession of fetish items in the Rumuduru community of Obio/Akpor LGA.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.

She said the suspects were handed over to the police by residents of Rumuduru.

According to her, the two suspects operated separate churches within the community.

“The fake pastors were handed over to the police by youths from Rumuduru, led by their president, Henry Worlu, on January 20.

“The youths raided the area and arrested Bassey and Elijah from their respective churches,” said the police command.

The statement added, “During interrogation, Bassey admitted to using spiritual materials, such as water and oil, to heal individuals suffering from spiritual afflictions.

“He also revealed that he used a small casket and a ‘miracle life oil’ to pray for people with mental issues, claiming they would recover within three months.”

It added that Mr Bassey had been residing and operating in the Rumuduru community for 17 years.

Items recovered from the suspects include a firearm cartridge, small wooden caskets, a sword, a fake Nigerian Navy identification card, and thousands of photographs.

Other items seized were children’s footwear, a police lanyard, and various crosses and spiritual materials.

“The suspects and the recovered exhibits are currently in police custody, and a discreet investigation is ongoing,” the statement said.

(NAN)