Police Neutralise 21-Year-Old Suspected Cultist in Anambra Raid
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the killing of a 21-year-old man identified as Chukwuka Solomon during a security operation targeting suspected cult activities in the state.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday at Amikwo community in Awka South Local Government Area.
The operation was carried out by officers attached to the Special Anti-Cultism Squad based in Enugu Ukwu.
Police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed on Tuesday that the suspect was confronted at his hideout during a search operation. He was fatally shot after allegedly attempting to flee from the scene.
During the operation, officers recovered one pump action shotgun, two locally fabricated pistols and quantities of expanded ammunition believed to be in the suspect’s possession.
The Command also reported that other suspected gang members launched an ambush during the raid but were repelled by the police team. Bloodstains discovered at the scene suggested that some of the fleeing suspects may have sustained gunshot injuries while escaping.
According to the police, the deceased had earlier been apprehended by residents of Amikwo community, who accused him of terrorising the area with firearms. He was subsequently handed over to law enforcement authorities for further investigation.
Preliminary interrogation reportedly revealed that the suspect was affiliated with the Supreme Vikings Confraternity, also referred to as Baggars. He was said to have admitted knowledge of weapons linked to the group.
Investigators also stated that he mentioned working for an individual known as Aza Man, who is alleged to be connected to criminal activities affecting Awka and surrounding communities. Police said they are pursuing leads obtained during questioning to apprehend other members of the gang, including the alleged leader.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, reaffirmed the Command’s determination to curb cultism, armed robbery and related violent crimes across Anambra. He assured residents that updates on ongoing operations would be communicated as investigations progress.
In a related development previously reported, the Anambra State Police Command arrested five individuals suspected of involvement in vandalism and theft at a company located in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area.
