We Arrested Suspected Cultists, Not Atiku Supporters – Police

The Spokesman of the Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, in a statement said operatives of the command raided black spots and arrested thirty-two suspected cultists in the state.

SP Iringe-Koko said the men of the command on 5th of February, 2023 raided two hideouts in connection with suspected cult-related activities in the state and arrested the suspects.

The statement revealed that those arrested are presently being profiled, adding that twelve of them have already been released from the police station.

SP Iringe-Koko said the Police Command has carried out targeted raids of criminal hideouts in Rivers State following incidents of cult clashes in recent time.

In a related development; over twenty persons who were arrested in connection to a meeting organized by suspected members of Atiku Support Group in Rivers State have been arraigned before a magistrate court sitting in Port Harcourt.

The suspects including those who claimed to have been arrested along the street of the venue of the Atiku Support Group meeting in Port Harcourt, were arraigned on counts of conspiracy, cultism, and unlawful gathering.

When the case was mentioned in court, Chief Magistrate, Collins Ali following the fact that the charge was said to be moved on ex-parte application, did not allow the charge to be read or plea taken, but, directed that the case file be transmitted to the office of Director of Public Prosecution for advice and information.

Today FM’S Uchendu Ejiowhor reports that Chief Magistrate ALI, after refusing bail application by the defense counsels, directed that the suspects be remanded in the Nigeria Correctional facility before adjourning to the 22nd of March, 2023 for bail consideration.

Speaking to newsmen after the court proceedings, one of the Port Harcourt based legal practitioner, Victor Orokor who was present at the court, slammed the police for the charges against the defendants.

On his part, one of the relatives of the suspects, Omuni Aleikor, said his brother identified as Abdullahi Ali was arrested along the street while selling his product.