The Abia State Police Command has dismissed as misleading a viral video circulating on social media alleging rising insecurity and the unchecked activities of criminal groups within the state capital.
In a rejoinder issued on April 1, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka, stated that the claims do not reflect the true security situation in Abia State, emphasizing that the state capital remains peaceful with residents going about their lawful activities without fear.
The Command disclosed that from January to date, it has recorded significant operational successes in its sustained crackdown on cultism and related crimes. According to the statement, a total of 13 cult-related cases have been investigated, leading to the arrest and arraignment of 23 suspects who have since been remanded in correctional custody. Additionally, 32 arms were recovered during various operations, while five other cult-related cases are currently under investigation.
Providing further details, the Command revealed that operatives, acting on credible intelligence, recently apprehended suspects linked to cult clashes at Isi Gate on March 13 and 18. In a related development, another group of suspected cultists was arrested along Orji River Street by Enugu Road in Umuahia in connection with a shooting incident. The Police assured that all suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend fleeing members of the criminal groups.
The Command also highlighted its proactive security strategies, including coordinated stop-and-search operations, intensified patrols across divisional areas, and the deployment of the Anti-Cultism Unit and other tactical teams. It added that continuous intelligence gathering remains a key component of its crime-fighting efforts.
As part of preventive measures, the Police announced the official launch of the “Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices,” targeting primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions across the state to address the menace from the grassroots.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, assuring residents that security agencies remain vigilant and proactive in curbing criminal activities.
He urged members of the public to continue their normal activities without fear and to support security efforts by reporting suspicious persons or movements to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines.
The Command reiterated its call for collective responsibility in ensuring a safer Abia State, stressing that effective policing requires active collaboration between security agencies and the public.
