Police Arrest 13 Suspected Cultists In Delta, Recover Firearms

The Delta State Police Command has arrested 13 suspected members of a notorious cult group and recovered scores of firearms and other dangerous items.

Police carried out the operation on Saturday during a late-night tactical operation in Ethiope East local government area of the state.

This followed credible intelligence that members of a secret cult, Aiye Confraternity, also known as Black Axe, were planning an initiation ceremony at the Ekraka Community Forest in Kokori.

According to the Police, operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS), led by its commander, SP Collins Achem, were swiftly deployed to the area to prevent the gathering.

Confirming the development, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, explained that, “at about 11 p.m., the patrol team encountered the suspects, who reportedly engaged the operatives in a gun duel upon sighting them.

“The operatives responded decisively, leading to the arrest of 13 suspects, while several others escaped deeper into the forest.”

Edafe said a search of the forest resulted in the recovery of two automatic pump-action, double-barrel cut-to-size gun and single-barrel cut-to-size guns as well as a battle axe.

“Other items recovered included aprons bearing “NBM” insignia, razor blades cut into pieces, mobile phones, charms, and suspected hard drugs,” he said.

Edafe added that seven vehicles believed to be owned and used by members of the cult group were also recovered and towed to the QRS Base in Warri.

H added that the suspects were currently in police custody as investigations continued to determine their individual roles, dismantle the cult network, and apprehend other fleeing members.

The Command urged parents, schools, community and faith leaders, as well as youths, to see the fight against cultism as a collective responsibility.

Residents were also encouraged to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police with credible information to enhance security across the state.