Bayelsa police arrest 32 cultists, set up special squad

Police in Bayelsa have arrested 32 cultists and set up a special “anti-cutlism squad” in a continued crackdown on cult-related activities.

The 32 suspects were arrested in Yenagoa, the state capital, said police spokesperson, SP Asinim Butswat, in a statement on Friday.

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Daily Trust gathered that in most streets in Yenagoa, residents go to bed as early as 7pm for fear of being attack by cultists who have turned the streets to battle field.

At the Amarata axis of Yenagoa, the residents could not sleep since last Monday due to shootings by two rival cult groups battling each other.

They also used the opportunity to loot and rob citizens.

Butswat explained that the formation of an anti-cultism squad by the command is a proactive measure to forestall future cult clashes and violent crimes and to ensure law and order is maintained in the state.

He said that the special squad is to confront cultists and violent criminals in the state and ensure that residents go about their legitimate businesses unmolested.

“The Squad has since commenced aggressive crack down on cultists and violent criminals. So far, 32 cultists have been arrested and upon conclusion of investigation will be charged to court under the Bayelsa State Anti-Cultism law.

“Consequently, all cult leaders, patrons and members, including minors, who have been influenced into joining the various cult groups are hereby warned to desist forthwith from any gathering, initiations and campaigns as well as any activity to promote the interest of their groups irrespective of its being violent or non-violent.

“The State Police Command is not unaware of the open and hidden involvement of prominent individuals supporting the activities of the cult groups.”