The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a suspected ritualist believed to be providing charms and mystical fortifications — popularly referred to as “bullet repellers” — to armed robbers and other criminal elements in the state.
The arrest, which took place at the suspect’s shrine in Nung Oku Village, Uruan Local Government Area, followed a carefully coordinated intelligence-led operation.
In an official statement released on Friday, August 8, 2025, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, confirmed that the suspect, identified as Cletus Effiong Bassey, 30, had long been on the police radar due to credible information linking him to ritualistic activities that allegedly aid criminal operations.
According to DSP John, the breakthrough came on July 29, 2025, at approximately 6:51 p.m., when police operatives, acting on actionable intelligence, stormed the shrine where Bassey was conducting his activities. He was taken into custody without resistance.
A thorough search of his compound uncovered a locally fabricated single-barrel gun, which the police believe may have been part of his illegal dealings. The weapon has been recovered as evidence and is currently undergoing forensic examination.
Preliminary findings suggest that Bassey allegedly specialised in preparing charms and other occultic materials for criminals, claiming his services could make them invulnerable to bullets and other dangers during their illicit operations. Such practices, according to the police, embolden armed robbers and contribute to the persistence of violent crimes in the region.
The police command has condemned these acts, describing them as dangerous and unlawful, not only for encouraging criminality but also for spreading harmful superstitions that mislead the public.
DSP Timfon John assured residents of Akwa Ibom that the police will continue to intensify efforts to track down individuals and groups who provide spiritual or material support to criminals. She further urged members of the public to share any information that could assist ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, Bassey remains in custody as detectives continue their probe. The command stated that once investigations are completed, the suspect will be charged to court to face the full weight of the law.