Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested a 30-year-old suspected ritualist, Cletus Effiong Bassey, for allegedly producing charms and “bullet repellers” for armed robbers.
The suspect was apprehended on July 29, 2025, around 7pm, during a raid on his shrine in Nung Oku Village, Uruan Local Government Area, following intelligence reports.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, in a statement on Friday, said Bassey’s arrest was part of an ongoing crackdown on criminal networks in the state.
“Preliminary investigation shows that the suspect has been deeply involved in ritualistic practices, including the preparation of native charms and bulletproof talismans for criminal gangs,” the statement read.
According to the police, a search of Bassey’s compound led to the recovery of a fabricated single-barrel gun, believed to be used in his illicit operations.
The PPRO added that investigations were still in progress to identify Bassey’s clients and dismantle the criminal supply chain.
The police assured residents of their commitment to flushing out criminals and urged the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies.
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