The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested five suspected cultists who allegedly attacked Fulani herders and killed two cows in Ibesikpo Asutan local government area of the state.
According to a statement released on Thursday by the command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the suspects were apprehended following a raid on a criminal hideout on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at approximately 6:30 PM.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Utibe Edem Asuquo (31), Godwin Edet Edem (32), Usen Edem Eyo (29), Aniebiet Edet Edem (28), and Anthony Dominic Edem (32).
"The suspects have voluntarily provided useful information to the police regarding their criminal activities. This includes their involvement in a recent attack on Fulani herdsmen, which resulted in the killing of two cows," DSP John stated.
The police spokesperson further revealed that the stolen cows were reportedly shared among various cult groups within Ibesikpo.
Items Recovered
During the operation, police recovered several items from the suspects, including:
- One locally made pistol
- One fabricated single-barrel gun
- Items suspected to be charms
According to DSP John, the suspects have been terrorizing Ibesikpo Asutan and neighboring communities prior to their arrest.
The police command has assured that efforts are currently underway to apprehend other fleeing gang members and recover their operational weapons.
This arrest comes amid ongoing concerns about clashes between herders and local communities in various parts of Nigeria, which have often resulted in violence and property destruction.
