Bayelsa Police Arrest 20 Suspected Cultists in Statewide Crackdown

The Bayelsa State Police Command says it has arrested 20 suspected cultists as part of intensified operations to curb cultism and cult-related violence across the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, disclosed this while speaking with newsmen, saying the Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, will issue a formal statement on the arrests and ongoing operations.

Mohammed said Bayelsa remains peaceful and commended residents and communities for supporting security agencies in identifying and apprehending suspected cult members.

The operation, ordered by the Commissioner of Police, has covered areas including Swali, Akenfa, Down Yenagoa and Agudama, among other communities considered vulnerable to cult activities.

The command says several suspected cultists, including some notorious figures, have been arrested, while efforts are ongoing to track other suspects.

Police tactical and divisional teams have also been directed to intensify patrols, strengthen intelligence gathering and prevent cult clashes, initiations and recruitment.