Police arrest man over cult-related killing in Imo

The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old man, Bright Adiene, in connection with the suspected cult-related murder of Nnamdi Okeke in Owerri.

The incident was reported on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

The police spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement, adding that the suspect was in custody while efforts were ongoing to arrest another suspect, identified as Anyima.

“Investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify all those involved,” Okoye said.

The arrest comes amid reports of renewed violence between rival cult groups in Owerri following the killing of a cult leader by a rival group weeks earlier.

However, the alleged link between the earlier killing and the latest incident could not be independently verified.

In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Bosso, convened a strategic security meeting on Sunday, October 18, with area commanders, divisional police officers and tactical team commanders to assess the security situation and strengthen operations across the state.

According to Okoye, the operational commanders were directed to intensify intelligence-led operations, conduct targeted raids on identified criminal hideouts, strengthen patrols in security hotspots and respond promptly to emerging threats.

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The police spokesperson added that Bosso had ordered closer collaboration with community leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to improve intelligence gathering and prevent further violence.

He appealed to parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities and associations, discourage involvement in cultism and report relevant information to security agencies.

The police commissioner warned that anyone found involved in cult-related violence would face the full consequences of the law.

The command also urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while providing credible information that could assist ongoing investigations and other security operations.

Members of the public can report useful information to the nearest police station or call 0803 477 3600.