September 29, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspected cult members in Uyo and recovered weapons, charms, and cult insignia in a fresh crackdown on violent crime in the state capital.
The suspects, identified as Donald Iwat and Daniel Bruno, were apprehended around 1:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 24, 2025, at Iyah Street, described by authorities as a notorious hideout for cult activity.
Items recovered during the operation included a jackknife, two machetes, a walkie-talkie, gunpowder, a fetish “bullet-proof” charm, two face caps bearing the Black Axe insignia, and a police lanyard allegedly obtained unlawfully.
Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Monday, noting that the suspects are in custody and undergoing investigation to determine their roles in recent cult-related violence and possible links to wider criminal networks.
“The Command is committed to rooting out cultism and other violent crimes in Akwa Ibom.
“We urge members of the public to continue to provide credible information that will aid the police in carrying out their duties,” DSP John said.
The development comes amid rising concerns over renewed cult clashes in Uyo metropolis. Residents have urged security agencies to step up surveillance in black spots to prevent further violence.
Chairman of the Uyo Residents’ Association, Ubong Akpan, commended the police for the successful operation, urging thorough prosecution of the suspects to deter other groups.
Security experts say the recovery of gunpowder, charms, and communication gadgets points to a link between cultism and organised crime, including armed robbery and political thuggery.
The Police Command reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on cultism and pledged to sustain intelligence-driven operations across the state.
