Imo police launch investigation into viral cult video
The Imo State Police Command has launched an official investigation following the circulation of a viral video showing some of its officers allegedly participating in cult-related activities. The video, which spread rapidly via social media, purportedly captures uniformed personnel engaging in behaviours consistent with known confraternities, prompting immediate concern from the command. Investigators have been directed to determine the identities of the officers involved, verify the authenticity of the footage, and assess whether these actions amount to formal membership in a proscribed organisation or fraternisation with such groups.
The commissioner of police for Imo State emphasised the command’s commitment to upholding discipline, professionalism, and public trust. He explained that once the investigation concludes, any officer found culpable would face sanctions in accordance with the police force’s regulations and disciplinary guidelines. Efforts are also underway to appeal to members of the public who may hold further evidence or video segments to come forward, ensuring that all relevant information is considered.
This episode follows a growing pattern of concerns over law enforcement personnel being implicated in cultism and other unethical practices across Nigeria. In May 2024, the Imo State Police Command had already arrested 14 suspected cultists in a separate operation, underscoring the state’s broader efforts to curtail secret confraternities and criminal networks. That context increases the pressure on the current investigation to yield transparent and credible outcomes, in order to restore confidence in the command’s internal oversight and to deter future misconduct.
The investigation aims not only to hold accountable those directly involved but also to review internal protocols around social media use, off-duty conduct, and fraternisation with suspected criminal groups. The force spokesperson stressed that appearing in a video which glorifies or aligns with a proscribed cult group undermines the integrity of policing, erodes community trust, and may compromise security operations. The results of the probe are to be made public when completed.
