The Rivers State Police Command has arrested six persons in Sii Community, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, over allegations of intimidation and ritual-related activities.
Gatekeepers News reports that those arrested include Chief Benedict Naalor Deezim, Mr. Nuadum Dorka Etukere, Mr. Samuel Neekia Deewii, Mr. Cletus Nuadum Kanee, and Dr. Lekia Nwiko.
The suspects were reportedly apprehended on Thursday following intelligence gathering and directives from the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 16, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
Their arrest followed a legal petition submitted to the AIG by Barry Kumbe & Co., a firm of legal practitioners and arbitrators, alleging unlawful ritual practices, intimidation, and acts capable of causing panic within the community.
The petition, dated March 10, 2025, was filed on behalf of Mr. Fortune L. Diginee and Hon. Barigbor N. Kenneth, both indigenes of Sii Community.
According to the petition, some community leaders and youths were allegedly involved in the unlawful planting of charms, intimidation, and activities linked to mysterious deaths in the area.
Among those named in the petition was the acting Paramount Ruler of Sii Town, Chief Benedict Naalor Deezim, alongside other stakeholders in the community.
The solicitors claimed that the alleged actions had created fear and tension among residents and called on the police to intervene to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Blessing Agabe, said investigations had commenced into the matter.
She disclosed that one of the suspects had already been charged to court and remanded in custody.
“The person that was arrested on that issue is part of the matter. He has been charged to court and is currently in prison,” she said.
Speaking on whether the arrests would deter others, Agabe noted that while communities may have different cultural practices and traditions, the police would always step in whenever criminal allegations are established.
She explained that although the police could mediate in civil disputes when necessary, the command would enforce the law where criminal intent is detected.
Agabe added that the police were closely monitoring the situation and taking steps to ensure peace and order in the community.
She also urged community leaders to avoid actions capable of creating panic, confusion, or crisis within the area.
