Anambra to arraign 33 for cultism, armed robbery

No fewer than 33 suspected cultists and armed robbers arrested at various locations in Anambra State following a recent cult clash will be arraigned in court this week.

The suspects who are to face a three-count charge of cultism, murder and conspiracy were picked from their hideouts in Awka, Obosi, Okija, and Ihiala area, all in Anambra State.

News Express gathered that the suspects have been terrorising their areas until they were nabbed by the Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SPACS) of the State Police Command.

According to a source that spoke to our correspondent, eleven of the suspects were arrested in Awka, the state capital, over cultism and murder, twelve in Obosi om the charge of cultism and murder while the ten suspects picked at Okija will face one count charge of cultism.

Confirming the arrest, the SPACS Commander, CSP Christopher Bassey, said that anybody involved in cultism and armed robbery will not be spared.

He attributed the emergence of cultism in those three areas of the state to political undertone and urged parents to always keep an eye on their children’s friends.

While calling on the people of Obosi to work towards speaking with one voice in order to enthrone peace in the community, the CSP noted that more logistics and personnel were needed for the unit so as to ensure that suspected criminals are shown the way out.

He, however, said that a stakeholders’ meeting involving the traditional ruler of Obosi and others aimed at restoring peace in the community is already underway.