The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested five suspected cultists and recovered firearms during an operation in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, according to a statement released on Thursday.

Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, revealed that the arrests were made on Wednesday at the suspects' hideout in Ikot Etuk village following credible intelligence received by the command.

During the operation, officers recovered one locally made pistol, one fabricated single-barrel gun, and various charms from the suspects.

"The suspects have voluntarily provided useful information to the police regarding their criminal activities," DSP John stated in the release.

According to the police spokesperson, the suspects confessed to their involvement in a recent attack on Fulani herdsmen, which resulted in the killing of two cows. The stolen cows were reportedly shared among various cult groups operating within Ibesikpo Asutan.

The Command is currently intensifying efforts to apprehend other fleeing gang members and recover additional operational weapons. DSP John assured that further developments would be communicated to the public as the investigation progresses.

This arrest comes amid ongoing concerns about cultism and related criminal activities in various parts of Akwa Ibom State, with authorities stepping up measures to combat such threats to public safety.