December 23, 2025
News | SUNTV Global Channel
The Delta State Police Command has arrested 13 suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity, popularly known as Black Axe, during a late-night tactical raid in a forest in Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state.
The arrests were made at the Ekraka Community Forest in Kokori following actionable intelligence that the cult group was planning to hold an initiation ceremony at the location.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Bright Edafe, said intelligence reports received on December 20, 2025, prompted the immediate deployment of the Quick Response Squad (QRS) to prevent the gathering.
According to the police, the operation was led by the QRS Commander, SP Collins Achem, who mobilised operatives to the forest after surveillance confirmed suspicious activities in the area.
“At about 11:00pm, operatives stormed the identified location. Upon sighting the police, the suspects engaged officers in a gun duel, forcing the operatives to respond,” the statement said.
The police said the confrontation ended with the arrest of 13 suspects, while several others fled deeper into the forest.
A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of various weapons and items allegedly linked to cult activities. Items recovered include two automatic pump-action guns, one double-barrel cut-to-size gun, one single-barrel cut-to-size gun, a battle axe, aprons bearing the inscription “NBM,” razor blades cut into pieces, mobile phones, charms and suspected hard drugs.
In addition, seven vehicles believed to be owned and used by members of the cult group were recovered at the scene and subsequently towed to the QRS Base in Warri.
Police sources said the suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation, while investigations have been intensified to identify their specific roles, dismantle the wider cult network and apprehend those who escaped during the raid.
The Delta State Police Command reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on cultism and violent crime, describing the operation as part of sustained efforts to rid the state of criminal gangs and restore public safety.
The police also called on parents, schools, community leaders, faith-based organisations and youths to support ongoing efforts to combat cultism through proper guidance, mentorship and the timely reporting of suspicious activities.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information to security agencies to enhance security across Delta State.
