Operatives of the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have uncovered a suspected ritual shrine in Abak Local Government Area, arresting five individuals believed to be involved in ritual killings.

 

During the raid, police recovered incriminating items including two coffins containing used women’s menstrual pads, photographs of victims and intended targets, charms, and various fetish materials.

 

Speaking at the State Command headquarters in Uyo on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, revealed that the arrest followed a lead from a victim whose girlfriend was raped during an attack on a guest house.

 

She explained that the suspects were linked to a series of crimes, including armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault. The breakthrough came after a man lodged a complaint on June 26, 2025, reporting that he was robbed and his female guest assaulted by a group of armed men at a guest house in Abak.

 

Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, detectives launched a thorough investigation, which led to a coordinated raid on the suspects’ hideout on July 30 at about 11:10 p.m., resulting in their arrest.

 

The suspects were identified as Richard Edet Udo, Hope Iniobong Anietie, Joseph Ibongidi, Christian Joseph Johnny, and Joseph Joseph.

 

DSP John assured that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang, adding that the Command remains committed to ensuring justice is served and all those involved are brought to book.