The Abia State Police Command has reaffirmed its zero tolerance for cultism and other violent crimes, warning that there is no safe space for criminal activities in the state.

The warning was issued by the State Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, in a statement released on Wednesday through the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka. In the same statement, the Command confirmed the arrest of 17 suspected cultists across the state.

According to the police, all the suspects are males between the ages of 18 and 28.

The Command also disclosed that a number of dangerous items were recovered during the operation, including five short guns, three rounds of live ammunition, 13 mobile phones of different brands, two cutlasses, one axe, and one black beret.

The statement explained that the arrests followed a recent increase in cult-related violence in the state. It referenced an attack on May 13, 2026, at No. 29 Brass Road, Aba, where a young man was shot and macheted to death by suspected cult members, as well as another incident on May 24, 2026, near Opobo Junction at Ehere, where another young man was also shot.

Acting on intelligence reports, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) launched targeted operations that led to the arrest of the 17 suspects. The police said the suspects were apprehended at different meeting points and while allegedly preparing to carry out further attacks. The recovered items were reportedly found in their possession.

The Command added that investigations have been concluded and the suspects will be charged to court.

Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, restated the Command’s commitment to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property, stressing that cultism and violent crime will not be tolerated in Abia State.

He further assured residents that there would be no hiding place for criminals, while urging members of the public to support the police by providing timely information on suspicious activities.

The police also noted that ongoing sensitisation campaigns through the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) will continue in schools and communities as part of efforts to discourage youth involvement in cult-related activities and reduce crime across the state.