Police Dismiss Viral Insecurity Claims, Highlight Gains Against Cultism in Abia

The Abia State Police Command has dismissed claims of rising insecurity in Umuahia, describing a viral video suggesting otherwise as misleading and inaccurate.

In a statement issued on April 1, 2026, the Command said it has recorded notable successes in tackling cultism and related crimes across the state. Since January, police have investigated 13 cult-related cases, arrested 23 suspects who have been arraigned in court, and recovered 32 firearms. Five additional cases are currently under investigation.

The Command stressed that Umuahia remains peaceful, with residents going about their daily activities without disruption.

Police also revealed that recent operations led to the arrest of suspects linked to cult clashes at Isi Gate on March 13 and 18, as well as other suspected cultists apprehended along Orji River Street near Enugu Road in connection with a shooting incident. Authorities say investigations are ongoing, with efforts underway to apprehend fleeing suspects.

To strengthen security, the Command has intensified patrols, stop-and-search operations, and intelligence gathering, alongside deploying tactical units including the Anti-Cultism Squad. It also recently launched a campaign against cultism and other social vices targeting schools across the state.

Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, urging residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities through designated emergency lines.

The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka.