The Nigerian Navy has arrested and handed over 42 suspected cult members to the Cross River State Government for investigation and prosecution.
This came few days after the state government declared 35 members of the cult group wanted.
Speaking with journalists in Calabar, the Commander of Nigerian Navy Victory Ship NNS, Rear Admiral Vincent Okeke, said the suspected cultists were arrested during their initiation in Akpabuyo riverine communities of the state.
The Commander, who was represented by Capt. Ibrahim Gwaska, said the Navy surveillance team received intelligence that the gang was initiating new members ahead of planned attack on a rival group.
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Receiving the suspects,the State Security Adviser, South, Ani Esin,commended the Navy for a successful operation; assuring that the suspects will be prosecuted after a thorough investigation by the Police in the state.
The Navy also seized a wooden boat laden with 130 drums of palm oil smuggled from Cameroon with 10 suspects.
Editor:(Omor Bazuaye)