Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have apprehended a 35-year-old armed robbery suspect, Innocent Chigozie, alleged to be the leader of a cultist gang responsible for terrorising farmlands along Uzo Afor Road in Okahia Community, Elele, Etche Local Council.

The suspect was arrested on January 30, 2025, at about 6:30 a.m., following a coordinated intelligence operation by the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU).

Confirming the arrest, the command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed that the suspect confessed to owning the recovered exhibits, which included one automatic pump-action gun and two live cartridges.

“The suspect, leader of a cultist gang, had been terrorising farmlands at Uzo Afor Road in Okahia Community. The gang’s activities have caused widespread panic and tension in the area.

“Earlier last year, the same gang engaged police operatives in a gun duel but was repelled. However, on January 30, 2025, at about 6:30 a.m., through coordinated intelligence, operatives arrested Innocent Chigozie at his hideout. During interrogation, the suspect admitted ownership of the recovered exhibits,” Iringe-Koko said.

The exhibits and the suspect are in police custody, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing gang members and recover their operational weapons.

Iringe-Koko described the arrest as a significant milestone in the Rivers State Police Command’s efforts to combat cultism and armed robbery.

She assured residents that the command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.