…the notorious cultist, Okoye confessed to his involvement in the attacks and disclosed that he holds a senior leadership role within his cult group.
Awka, Nigeria – The iNews Times reports that operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, under the Anambra State Police Command, have arrested a notorious cultist, identified as Chukwujekwu Michael Okoye, popularly known as Bus-Stop, in connection with a series of violent crimes in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area.
The suspect, aged 25, was arrested on July 7, 2025, following coordinated intelligence-led operations in response to a spate of violent incidents that rocked the Oko community in May and June 2025.
According to police authorities, Okoye is a high-ranking member of the deadly Aye Confraternity cult group and played a key role in the robbery, abduction, and killing of residents during multiple attacks in the area.
“The arrest is a follow-up to the disturbing incident at Oko, which recorded the injury to two persons, murder of two persons, and abduction of two others who were later released after ransom was paid,” said SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Command, in a press statement issued Tuesday, and made available to The iNews Times.
The attacks occurred at Total Junction and Tipper Junction in Oko, triggering fear and unrest among residents. The suspect was also linked to a May 22, 2025, armed robbery, during which he allegedly robbed a victim at gunpoint of a mobile phone and other valuables.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to his involvement in the attacks and disclosed that he holds a senior leadership role within the Aye cult group. He further revealed that his gang had finalized plans for an initiation ceremony and a retaliatory cult attack on the same day he was arrested.
Police operatives recovered an automatic pump-action rifle and two mobile phones believed to be stolen property.
“He also revealed details of how he and six other gang members attacked Oko on June 19, 2025,” SP Ikenga added.
Authorities have now launched a manhunt for the remaining members of the cult group. The Anambra State Police Command says it is determined to dismantle the network and restore peace to affected communities.
“Given the information provided by the suspect, the Operatives have activated plans for the arrest of other gang members aimed at dismantling the criminal network in the State,” the statement concluded.
Further updates are expected as investigations continue.
