Police arrest 22-year-old man over cult-related murder in Imo

The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old suspect over a suspected cult-related murder of one Nnamdi Okeke in Owerri. 

Okeke, also known as Kilo, a printer and married father of four, was murdered on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

The spokesperson for the command, DSP Okoye Henry, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, 18 October 2026 said efforts are ongoing to apprehend one Anyima in connection with the incident.

“The Imo State Police Command has arrested Bright Adiene, 22, allegedly connection with the suspected cult-related murder of Mr. Okeke Nnamdi in Owerri, which was reported on 17 October 2026,” the statement read.

"The suspect is currently in police custody, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend one Anyima, who is also connected with the incident.

"Investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify all those involved.

"In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, psc(+), mnips, convened a strategic security meeting on 18 October 2026 with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Team Commanders to assess the security situation and strengthen operational strategies across the state.

"Following the meeting, operational commanders were directed to intensify intelligence-led operations, conduct targeted raids on identified criminal hideouts, strengthen patrols in security hotspots, and respond promptly to emerging threats.

"The Commissioner also directed closer collaboration with community leaders, youth groups, and other stakeholders to improve intelligence gathering and prevent further violence.

"He urged parents and guardians to monitor their children’s activities and associations, discourage involvement in cultism, and promptly report relevant information to security agencies. He warned that anyone found to be involved in cult-related violence would face the full consequences of the law.

"The Command urges residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding and to provide credible information that could assist ongoing investigations and other security operations. 

“Members of the public are encouraged to report useful information to the nearest police station or call 0803 477 3600.”