Police Break Cult Network as 25-Year-Old “Bus-Stop” Confesses to Murder, Abduction and Robbery in Oko, Anambra State

A suspected cultist identified as Chukwujekwu Michael Okoye, popularly known by his alias “Bus-Stop,” has been arrested by the Anambra State Police Command in connection with the violent events that rocked the Oko community in Orumba North Local Government Area. The 25-year-old suspect is accused of playing a leading role in the murder of two individuals and the abduction of two others during a violent incident on May 22, 2025, that has since sent shockwaves through the community.

The arrest was carried out on Monday, July 7, by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad based in Awkuzu, following weeks of intelligence gathering and coordinated surveillance efforts. According to the spokesperson of the state police command, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, Okoye’s apprehension is part of an ongoing crackdown on cult-related violence and organized crime within the state.

Reports indicate that the violence occurred around the Total Junction, close to the Federal Polytechnic, Oko. On that fateful day, unknown gunmen attacked the area, leaving two people dead and taking two others captive. Those abducted were later released in early June, reportedly after their families paid ransom. The incident sparked public outrage and intensified calls for government intervention to restore security in the area.

According to the police, the arrest of Okoye marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation. During his interrogation, he allegedly confessed to being a high-ranking member of the notorious Aye Confraternity, where he currently holds the title of “Lord.” The suspect also revealed that he was directly involved in the planning and execution of several cult activities, including a recent initiation ceremony and a violent cult clash.

Recovered during his arrest were an automatic pump-action gun and two mobile handsets, which are believed to have been stolen from victims. Investigators believe these items could provide vital clues in further unraveling the network of criminal activities linked to Okoye and his accomplices.

SP Tochukwu Ikenga noted that the suspect had earlier, on the morning of May 22, robbed a victim at gunpoint, making away with a mobile phone and other valuables. The attack occurred just hours before the deadly assault that later claimed two lives at Total Junction.

Details of Okoye’s confession reveal that on June 19, 2025, he and six other cult members launched another violent assault in Oko, deepening fears of a cult resurgence in the region. This incident reportedly followed a series of meetings and planning sessions orchestrated by the cult group, culminating in a full-scale confrontation that terrorized residents.

Authorities are now pursuing leads provided by the suspect to apprehend the remaining members of the gang. The state command has since activated tactical operations to dismantle what they describe as a “dangerous and well-organized criminal network” operating in various parts of Anambra State. Investigations are ongoing, with more arrests expected in the coming days.

Residents of Oko have expressed relief at the breakthrough, many of whom have lived in fear since the attacks began. “We just want peace to return,” said a local trader who asked not to be named. “People have been afraid to open their shops or move freely. This arrest gives us hope that the police are doing something.”

The Anambra State Police Command has reassured the public of its commitment to restoring law and order. SP Ikenga urged community members to remain vigilant and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by sharing credible information that could help in the apprehension of other fugitives.

While the arrest of Okoye marks a turning point, authorities have emphasized that the fight against cultism and violent crime is far from over. Security patrols have been intensified in Oko and neighboring communities as part of wider efforts to maintain peace and prevent further criminal incidents.

Further updates are expected from the police as investigations unfold.