Aniefiok Christopher
Fifteen suspected cultists were nabbed at their hideouts and black spots in Atia Coastal Village, Ibeno Local Government Area of the state.
Operatives of Ibeno Divisional Police Headquarters arrested the suspects have launched manhunt for other suspects in a bid to sustain the fight against cultism, illicit drug activities and other criminal acts in the state.
A press release signed by DSP Timfon John, the State Police Public Relations Officer for Commissioner of Police said the operation was conducted on 20 October 2026, at about 1700 hours, following intelligence-led efforts to dismantle criminal hideouts and curb cult-related activities within the area.
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‘‘The operation resulted in the arrest of the following suspects: Dominic, male, 35 years, alias “Don Sars,” of Esit Eket LGA; Ndifreke Paul, male, 29 years, alias “Black Satan,” of Onna LGA; Etim Oboho, male, 46 years, of Urue-Offong/Oruko LGA; and twelve (12) other suspects.
‘‘During preliminary interrogation, two of the suspects, Ubong Dominic, alias “Don Sars,” and Ndifreke Paul, alias “Black Satan,” allegedly confessed to membership of the Vikings and Iceland confraternities.
‘‘Investigations are ongoing to establish their respective affiliations, determine their level of involvement in cult-related activities, and identify other persons connected to the suspected criminal networks,’’ the release stated.
According to it, ‘‘Items recovered during the operation include wraps of substances suspected to be Indian hemp; substances suspected to be methamphetamine, popularly known as “Ice”; two (2) suspected stolen 8-horsepower outboard engines; one motorcycle bearing registration number KTS 346 WZ, suspected to be stolen; cult-related berets; items bearing Vikings inscriptions; bottles containing substances suspected to be charms; and five (5) mobile handsets.
‘‘While some of the suspects were arrested, others reportedly escaped into the surrounding creeks. The Command has intensified efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover other possible exhibits.’’
The Commissioner of Police reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating cultism, drug-related offences and other criminal activities across Akwa Ibom State.
He warns individuals and groups engaged in criminal activities to desist forthwith, as the Command will continue to deploy intelligence-led policing, targeted raids and other lawful operational strategies to identify, arrest and prosecute offenders.
The Command urges members of the public, community leaders and other stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by providing credible and timely information to the Police. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through appropriate police channels.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command assures the public of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace and security throughout the state.
