By Ultimatenewsnigeria
37 suspected cultists have been arrested while nine persons have been killed in a renewed clash between two rival cults in Ebonyi State.
The State Commissioner for Internal Security and Border Peace, Hon Stanley Okoro Emegha disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of the enlarged State Security council meeting in Abakaliki said that some members of the State Vigilance group, Neighborhood Watch, were among the suspects held.
He disclosed that the Governor had placed bounty on anybody identified as cultists in the state.
“About 37 persons have been arrested and we are making arrangement to take them to court.
“It is pertinent to note that some members of the Neighbourhood Security Watch, the state’s security outfit, were among those arrested for the cult-related activities.
“The suspects will soon be charged to court, as the government is exploring all avenues to eradicate cultism in the state.
“The government has also given security agencies seven days to expose cult members in the state or take the blame for cult disturbances,” he said.
The commissioner assured residents of a secured yuletide, with efforts already made to protect the lives and property of the citizens.
“The government requested that divisional police officers and other security enforcers in all the local government areas attend the meeting to evolve ways of protecting the people during the yuletide.
“The security officers at the council areas complained of logistic challenges, such as operational vehicles and the governor pledged to swiftly address the challenges.
“The aesthetic nature of the state has been greatly enhanced by the governor and visitors will be thronging the state during the yuletide.
“Traditional rulers and town union leaders, among others, will be held liable in cases of disturbances in their areas, as they were also enjoined to ensure adequate security,” he said.
The commissioner also stated that 9,000 live cartridges were recently discovered at a building material market, adding that the owner of the shop, where they were discovered, was being interrogated by security agencies.
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