Police Arrest Notorious Cultist Linked To Murder In Rivers

The Rivers state police command, in collaboration with the C4i Strike Force and Diobu Vigilante, has apprehended a notorious cultist and armed robbery suspect known as Samuel Nwokeoma.

The suspect is said to be connected to the cult-related killings in the Diobu area, Mile One, Port Harcourt.

Speaking via a statement signed by its Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP. Grace Iringe-Koko, the Force, disclosed that the 25-year-old, who confessed his membership in the Blood Star cult group, was arrested on March 17.

The statement read, “During the subsequent interrogation, Samuel Nwokoma confessed to his involvement in two specific incidents.

“On the 14th of March, 2024, at approximately 2030hrs, he and his gang attacked and fatally shot Ede Sunday, a 32-year-old male, at Nanka Street by Lomumba, Dioubu, Port Harcourt.

“On the 16th of March, 2024, at approximately 2035hrs, they also shot George Johnson, a 28-year-old male, in the chest at Ojoto Street by Emenike, Diobu, Port Harcourt. Despite receiving immediate medical attention at New Mile One Clinic Diobu, George Johnson tragically succumbed to his injuries”.

The statement also disclosed that Nwokoma led police operatives to the gang’s hideout at Ogwu Waterside, Diobu, Port Harcourt.

It added: “However, upon the arrival of the police, the remaining gang members fled the scene and attempted to evade capture by jumping into the river. Intensive efforts are currently underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.

“The search conducted at the hideout yielded substantial evidence in the form of recovered arms and ammunition.

“The recovered items include three AK-47 rifles, one assault rifle, six AK-47 magazines, one Beretta pistol, 274 rounds of 7.6mm live ammunition, 105 rounds of 6.55 live ammunition, nine rounds of .9mm ammunition, seven packets of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), one long detonating wire, and various types of charms.

“We assure the public that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure the apprehension of all individuals involved in these criminal activities.

“The Commissioner of Police Rivers State urges members of the community to continue cooperating with the police by providing any relevant information that may aid in the arrest of the remaining suspects. Together, we can create a safer and more secure environment for all residents.”