Police raid Ibeno hideouts, arrest 15 suspected cultists

Etim Ekpimah

Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested 15 suspected cultists during a raid in Atia Coastal Village, Ibeno Local Government Area, recovering two suspected stolen outboard engines, a motorcycle and suspected illicit drugs.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.

She said operatives from the Ibeno Divisional Police Headquarters raided suspected cultists’ hideouts at about 5 pm on Tuesday, following intelligence on alleged criminal activities in the area.

Those arrested included Ubong Dominic, 35, alias “Don Sars”, from Esit Eket; Ndifreke Paul, 29, alias “Black Satan”, from Onna; Etim Oboho, 46, from Urue-Offong/Oruko; and 12 others.

John said Dominic and Paul allegedly admitted membership of the Vikings and Iceland confraternities during preliminary questioning.

Investigators were working to establish their respective affiliations, determine their alleged involvement in cult activities and identify other people connected to the groups.

Officers recovered two eight-horsepower outboard engines and a motorcycle with number plate KTS 346 WZ, all suspected to have been stolen.

Other items recovered included wraps of suspected cannabis, substances suspected to be methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice”, berets allegedly associated with cult groups, items bearing Vikings inscriptions and five mobile phones.

Police also recovered bottles containing substances described in the statement as suspected charms.

John said some suspects escaped into the surrounding creeks during the operation. Police were pursuing them and searching for further evidence.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, said the command would continue intelligence-led raids and other lawful operations against cultism, drug offences and other crimes.

He urged residents and community leaders to provide credible, timely information and report suspicious activities to the police.