By Emmanuel Abi Couson
As the nation enters the festive period the Delta State Police Command has burst criminal gangs of cultist in Ethiope East Local Government.
The command ongoing battle against cultism and violent crime has achieved some great results with the successful apprehension of thirteen (13) suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity, also known as Black Axe.
This operation took place during a tactical intervention in the Ekraka Community forest located in Kokori, Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state.
Shedding light on the operation, the Command’s spokesman, Superintendent of Police (SP) Bright Edafe, said on December 20, 2025, the police operatives acted on credible intelligence regarding a planned initiation ceremony by the cult members in the forest.
Edafe said the operatives, led by SP Collins Achem, Commander of the Quick Response Squad (QRS), executed the operation in a highly strategic manner.
He stated that the incident occurred around 2300 hours, when the suspects were confronted by a police patrol team.
The spokesman said upon the patrol team’s arrival, the suspects initiated a gunfight in an attempt to evade capture.
He averred that the police operatives demonstrated exceptional professionalism and tactical acumen, resulting in the arrest of thirteen (13) suspects.
He, however, said several other suspected cult members managed to escape into the dense forest.
Edafe said during the search of the area, law enforcement recovered an array of dangerous items, including firearms — two (2) automatic pump-action guns, one (1) double-barrelled cut-to-size gun, and one (1) single-barrelled cut-to-size gun.
Other Items recovered, according to the Edafe , are one (1) battle axe, aprons displaying the “NBM” insignia, razor blades that had been cut into pieces, several mobile phones, charms, and suspected hard drugs.
He said the operation underscored the Delta State Police Command’s commitment to combating cultism and ensuring the safety and security of communities.
Edafe equally said the recovery of firearms and other dangerous items is a crucial step in curtailing the activities of violent crime syndicates in the state.
In addition, he said seven (7) vehicles believed to be owned and used by members of the cult group were recovered and towed to the QRS Base in Warri.
Edafe said the suspects are currently in custody, while investigations have commenced to establish their individual roles, dismantle the network, and track down other fleeing members of the syndicate.
Meanwhile, the Command has said it has zero tolerance for cultism and violent crime.
The spokesman, therefore, called on parents, schools, community and faith leaders, and youths to see the fight against cultism as a shared duty, driven by guidance, positive role models, and timely reporting.
Edafe urged residents to remain vigilant and to continue supporting the police with credible information as efforts to keep Delta State safe continue.
