Akwa Ibom State Police Command has apprehended two suspected cult members in Uyo, recovering a significant cache of weapons, fetish objects, and cult insignia as part of ongoing efforts to combat violent crime in the state capital.
The suspects, identified as Donald Iwat and Daniel Bruno, were arrested in the early hours of Tuesday, September 24, 2025, following a tip-off to police operatives. The operation occurred around 1:00 a.m. on Iyah Street, Uyo, described by authorities as a “notorious hideout” for cult-related activities.
Following the arrest, a search of the suspects’ hideout led to the seizure of several incriminating items. Among these were a jack knife, two machetes, a walkie-talkie radio, gunpowder, and a fetish “bullet-proof” charm allegedly used for protection during violent operations.
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Authorities also recovered two face caps bearing the insignia of the Black Axe Confraternity and a police lanyard suspected to have been unlawfully obtained.
According to Nigerian Tribune, a statement released on Monday, DSP Timfon John, the police spokesperson, confirmed that the suspects are currently in custody and undergoing investigation to determine their involvement in cult-related violence and potential connections to wider criminal networks within the state.
“The Command is committed to rooting out cultism and other violent crimes in Akwa Ibom. We urge members of the public to continue to provide timely and credible information that will help the police in carrying out their constitutional duties,” DSP John stated.
The arrests come amid heightened concerns over the resurgence of cult clashes and violent street activities across Uyo metropolis. Residents have repeatedly called for increased surveillance in known black spots to prevent further breaches of law and order.
Commenting on the development, Mr. Ubong Akpan, Chairman of the Uyo Residents’ Association, praised the police for the successful operation. He urged authorities to ensure thorough prosecution of the suspects to send a strong message to other cult groups operating within the state.
Security analysts noted that the recovery of items such as gunpowder, charms, and communication devices indicates a potential link between cultism and broader organized crimes, including armed robbery and political thuggery. They emphasized the importance of collaboration between security agencies, community leaders, and civil society in tackling this menace.
The Police Command, reiterating its zero-tolerance stance on cultism, assured the public of continued vigilance and committed to deploying intelligence-driven strategies to curb the rising threat.
