The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested more than 20 suspected cultists in various areas across the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, disclosed this on Thursday, October 8.
Mohammed said: “So far, 20 suspected cultists have been arrested. The CP will make a formal statement on that.
“Bayelsa State is peaceful now. We appreciate the efforts by various communities to ensure that these enemies of the state are apprehended.”
The crackdown, ordered by the Commissioner of Police, has covered Swali, Akenfa, Down Yenagoa, Agudama and other communities that are vulnerable to cult activities.
Police boss said several suspected cultists, including some notorious figures, had been arrested, while security operatives were also tracking other suspects.
The Commissioner has directed divisional and tactical teams across the state to intensify patrols, strengthen intelligence gathering and prevent planned cult clashes, initiations and recruitment.
The command said the ongoing operation was aimed at dismantling cult networks and restoring peace to communities affected by cult-related activities.
The latest police crackdown followed renewed cult clashes in Yenagoa at the weekend, during which at least five persons were feared k!lled in violence involving rival cult groups.