Police arrest 24-year-old cultist linked to armed robbery in Cross River 

From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar

The Cross River State Police Command has apprehended a twenty four years old cultist – Fode Bassey in connection with armed robbery, cultism, and unlawful possession of firearm.

Bassey was allegedly part of a four man gang that attacked a victim on the 29th of March, 2026, stealing a solar battery and cash totalling over five hundred thousand naira.

Confirming the attack, the Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer ASP Sunday Eitokpah released a statement detailing the operation.

According to him, “On 1st April 2026, at about 10:13hrs, following a report made on 29th March 2026, one Edim was attacked by a group of four armed youths.

“The assailants, armed with cutlasses and a firearm, inflicted injuries on the victim’s left hand and threatened him with death if he resisted.

“They stole a bag containing a Delight solar battery valued at One Hundred and Eighty-Five Thousand Naira (₦185,000.00) and cash totaling Three Hundred and Twenty-Six Thousand Naira (₦326,000.00).

“Acting swiftly, police detectives tracked and arrested Fode Bassey “M”. The suspect confessed to the crime and revealed that he and his accomplices are members of the Vikings Secret Cult Confraternity.

“A locally fabricated pistol was recovered from his possession. Investigation is ongoing, with efforts intensified to apprehend the remaining suspects”, he said.

ASP Eitokpah assured residents that the command remains unwavering in its commitment to the safety of lives and property across the State.

While urging members of the public to remain vigilant, he solicited for any useful information to aid ongoing investigations.