The Rivers State Police Command has announced the arrest of two suspected cultists believed to be members of the notorious Iceland cult group linked to the murder of Superintendent of Police (SP) Bako Angbashim, the former Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ahoada Division.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the arrests were made following coordinated intelligence-led operations by operatives of the Octopus Tactical Unit.
On May 3, 2025, police operatives acting on credible intelligence raided a suspected cultist hideout in the Ikata Community of Ahoada East Local Government Area. During the operation, one suspect, identified as Lovegod Goodluck, a resident of Ikata, was apprehended. A locally made single-barrel gun and two live cartridges were recovered from the scene.
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Further investigations led to a follow-up operation on June 13, 2025, at about 5:30 p.m., during which another suspect, Precious Olumini who had previously evaded arrest was captured. Police recovered an English-made pump-action rifle and a locally fabricated pistol from the suspect.
The suspects, during interrogation, reportedly confessed to being members of the Iceland cult group, which has been terrorizing residents in the Ahoada East axis of the state. The group has been linked to several acts of violence, including the killing of late SP Bako Angbashim.
According to the Command, the suspects and recovered weapons are currently in police custody, while investigations continue. Authorities have launched a manhunt for other fleeing members of the gang and are working to recover additional operational weapons.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to eradicating violent crime and cultism in the state. He also called for public cooperation, urging citizens to assist law enforcement with credible information that can help restore peace and order in affected communities.
