The Enugu State Police Command has made significant breakthroughs in its ongoing crackdown on violent crimes, arresting 13 male suspects involved in armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearms, and cult-related activities across various parts of the state.

According to a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, the arrests followed a series of tactical and intelligence-driven operations carried out by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad between July 15 and 30, 2025. The operations also led to the recovery of firearms, stolen vehicles, and other incriminating items.

On July 30, 2025, at about 3:40 a.m., operatives acting on the confession of one Ekene Akpata (a.k.a. Odumodu), 35, who was already under investigation for conspiracy, armed robbery, and cultism, stormed Oyofo-Oghe in Ezeagu LGA. The operation resulted in the arrest of three additional suspects: Ebuka Odinko (35), Chiemerie Amano (25), and Onyebuchi Onyekwere (24). Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were members of the Vikings Confraternity and had participated in multiple armed robbery incidents.

Similarly, based on information from suspects Okechukwu Ogbonna (65) of Abia State and Ezeonuji Charles (52) of Anambra State—both under investigation for armed robbery—operatives conducted a follow-up operation in Port Harcourt, Rivers State between July 23 and 28. Two more suspects were arrested: Udofia Richard (43) of Akwa Ibom State, and Richard Arinzechukwu Nwaomu (32) of Imo State. Two suspected stolen vehicles—a red Toyota Camry (Reg. No. YEN 221 AG) and an ash Kia Soul (Reg. No. PHC 845 AE)—were recovered.

In a separate operation on July 21, operatives arrested Stephen Chidiebere (a.k.a. Shaggy, 42), Arinze Udeh (a.k.a. Anonymous, 30), and Onuigbo Kingsley (49) in Umuasi Ngwo, Udi LGA. Their arrest followed the earlier capture of Ikemefuna Ani (a.k.a. Majority, 31), already linked to a case of conspiracy, armed robbery, and cultism. A locally made double-barrelled gun was recovered from the group, suspected to be affiliated with the Black Axe Confraternity.

Another operation on July 15 at about 10:20 a.m., led to the arrest of Ifeanyi Ede (30) by operatives of the Ogui Division in collaboration with the Neighbourhood Watch. Ede and a fleeing accomplice had earlier that morning used a pistol-like object—later identified as a Spark-L electronic gas lighter—to rob a taxi driver of N30,000, a mobile phone, car keys, and an ATM card. The suspect was arrested shortly after the crime and the phone recovered, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend his accomplice.

All suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue. The Command stated that charges will be filed upon conclusion of inquiries.

Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, commended the operatives for their professionalism and dedication. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to eradicating criminal networks and ensuring public safety across the state. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities via the emergency lines: 08032003702, 08086671202, or the Command and Control Centre toll-free number 112.