15 Arrested As Cultists, Police Clash In Obiano’s Community

The Anambra State police command has arrested about 15 suspected cult members in the Aguleri community of Anambra East Local Government Area, the hometown of former governor Chief Willie Obiano.

The arrest followed a clash between cultists and police operatives in the area.

A source said gun-wielding men invaded the community at about 11 am on Sunday and started shooting at one another, causing residents to flee.

The gunmen were suspected to be cultists tackling a rival group. Police operatives stepped in and engaged them in a gun duel.

A source said no life was lost but many people sustained varying degrees of injuries as a result of the shooting.

When contacted, Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Ikenga Tochukwu confirmed the incident.

But debunked the claim that policemen were injured, adding that some of the cultists have been arrested.

According to the PPRO: “The situation has been brought under control, on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Echeng Echeng. The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations led police operatives to the scene and prevented the youths from attacking the police station.”

He confirmed that over 15 persons have been arrested while some dangerous weapons were recovered.

He also confirmed that police are exploring means of resolving the conflict, including calling for a parley among aggrieved youths.

“We have also intensified patrols in the area, aimed at enhancing peace and safety,” he stated.