Imo State Police Command has successfully detained five individuals suspected of cult activities during a targeted raid in Irete, Owerri West Local Government Area. The arrests were made as part of a strategic operation aimed at curbing cult-related violence and criminality within the state.
According to a statement from the police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, the suspects are identified as Uche Ibejiako, 26, from Owerri Municipal; Mariano Daniel, 24, from Delta State; Michael Chukwuemeka, 23, from Umuokwu Izombe in Oguta Local Government Area; and Annointing Ezeh, 23, from Umugada Irete in Owerri West LGA. All five have reportedly admitted to their affiliations with the notorious Black Axe Confraternity.
“The suspects were apprehended through a well-coordinated operation aimed at addressing the menace of cultism in the region. They have all confessed to their membership in the Black Axe Confraternity, and we are currently conducting a comprehensive investigation to uncover further details of their activities,” Okoye said.
The state Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, emphasized the importance of public cooperation in the fight against crime. “We urge the community to continue supporting our efforts by reporting any suspicious activities. Such collaboration is essential for maintaining peace and security in Imo State,” Danjuma stated.
This operation follows a similar arrest on July 27, 2024, when Chibueze Kalu, another alleged cultist, was apprehended with a locally made pistol. Kalu also confessed to being a member of the Black Axe Confraternity.
