The Anambra State Police Command has arrested an officer over the  alleged death of a three-month-old baby at Okija, in Ihiala Local Council of the state.

The affected office is currently undergoing interrogation and other administrative procedures in line with the Nigeria Police Force disciplinary processes.

The command also arrested 17 suspected cultists over alleged involvement in cult-related activities, drug abuse, and other acts described as immoral.

The suspects were arrested during a raid carried out by operatives of the State Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) following credible intelligence.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, through the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, said all the suspects arrested were male.

The statement noted that the suspects were apprehended at an identified hideout in Awka in the early hours of Sunday, May 24, 2026.

According to the command, items recovered from the suspects included dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis sativa, containers of petroleum jelly, condoms, and other exhibits considered relevant to the ongoing investigation.

The suspects were identified as Okeke Ugochukwu, 28; Okoro Christian, 17; Goodluck Michael, 25; Amuche Michael, 24; Ojukwu Divine, 26; Ikechukwu Chimeremeze, 20; Obinna Ike, 30; Nnamdi Desmond, 28; Odibendi, 20; Emmanuel Onyema, 26; Omalico Eric, 23; Duru Ifeanyi, 23; Diamond Zikora, 26; Charles Chukwuma, 28; Ikem Vincent, 20; Okeke Chibuzo, 23; and Izunna Okoye, 24.

“Preliminary interrogation of the suspects allegedly revealed their affiliation with the Vikings Confraternity, also known as ‘Bagger’.

“The investigation is also extending to allegations of unlawful and immoral activities reportedly carried out at the location,” the statement added.

The command said a full-scale investigation had commenced to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement in cult-related activities and other possible criminal offences.

It added that further developments would be communicated in due course.

The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu reiterated that cultism, drug abuse, and all forms of criminality capable of undermining public peace and societal values would not be tolerated in the state.
He also regretted the incident that caused the death of the baby, stating that the Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident to ascertain the facts and ensure that justice is served.

The CP extended sympathy to the deceased child’s family and assured the public that the Command would remain transparent and professional in handling the matter.