Leader of cultist gang terrorising farmlands in Rivers arrested

She added that the gang which Chigozie led had last year engaged operatives in a gun battle but they escaped following the superior firepower of men of the command.

“The suspect, leader of a cultist gang, had been terrorising farmlands at Uzo Afor road in Okahia Community, Elele, Etche LGA. The gang’s activities have caused widespread panic and tension in the community.

“Earlier last year, this same gang had engaged police operatives in a gun duel but were chased away.

“On January 30, 2025, at about 0630hrs, operatives arrested Innocent Chigozie, m, 35 years in his hideout through coordinated intelligence.

“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to owning the recovered exhibits, including one automatic pump action gun and two live cartridges.

”The suspect and exhibits are currently in police custody. An investigation is ongoing, with efforts intensified to apprehend other fleeing gang members and recover their operational weapons.” the statement read.