The operatives of the Imo State Police Command have apprehended five suspected cultists during an intelligence-led operation at Irete, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.

In a release signed by the command’s spokesman, Henry Okoye, and made available to newsmen on Sunday, he said, “The suspects, 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 (LGA); and Annointing Ezeh, 23, from Umugada Irete in Owerri West LGA, were arrested following a strategic operation designed to combat cult-related activities within the state.

“All four suspects have confessed to being members of the Black Axe Confraternity, a known criminal group. An ongoing investigation to gather further evidence on their activities has started. The suspects will be charged in court upon completion of this thorough investigation.”

The state Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, urged the public to “continue supporting our efforts to combat crime by reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station,” adding that such combined efforts are “crucial in maintaining peace and security across the state.”

On July 27, 2024, the state command also arrested a suspected cultist, Chibueze Kalu, and recovered one locally made pistol from the 25-year-old.

Kalu confessed to being a member of the Black Axe Confraternity.

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