Kogi Police Arrest 11 for Cultism and ATM Fraud

On October 17, 2026, the Kogi State Police Command arrested eight suspected cultists in Itobe, Ofu Local Government Area, following a raid based on credible intelligence. The suspects, aged between 14 and 28, were reportedly gathered to appoint a leader for a local cult group, with some admitting membership in the Aro-Baga Vikings and Aiye confraternities.

Items recovered included two motorcycles, an axe, and a cutlass. The Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Kankarofi, indicated that the arrests were crucial due to intelligence about potential violent clashes between rival cult groups.

The case has been transferred to the Violent Crime Response Unit for further investigation. Additionally, on October 20, 2026, three suspects were arrested in Idah for ATM card-swapping fraud, identified as Philip Akiola, Ojo Thomas, and Abdulrauf Suleiman.

These arrests followed a complaint lodged on May 19, 2026, regarding the fraudulent activities.