Delta Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright,
The Delta State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against cultism and violent crime with the arrest of 13 suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity, also known as Black Axe, during a tactical operation in Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state.
The operation was carried out in the Ekraka Community forest, Kokori, following credible intelligence on a planned cult initiation ceremony. Confirming the development, the Command’s spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Bright Edafe, said the raid took place on December 20, 2025, at about 11:00 p.m.
According to Edafe, the operation was led by SP Collins Achem, Commander of the Quick Response Squad (QRS), who deployed officers in a strategic and coordinated manner. Upon arrival at the location, the suspects reportedly engaged the police team in a gun duel in a bid to escape.
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Despite the resistance, police operatives successfully overpowered and arrested 13 suspects, while several others fled into the forest.
A search of the area led to the recovery of multiple dangerous weapons and incriminating items, including two automatic pump-action guns, one double-barrelled cut-to-size gun, one single-barrelled cut-to-size gun, a battle axe, aprons bearing the “NBM” insignia, cut razor blades, mobile phones, charms, and suspected hard drugs.
The police also recovered seven vehicles believed to belong to members of the cult group, which were subsequently towed to the QRS Base in Warri.
Edafe said the suspects are currently in custody, while investigations are ongoing to determine their individual roles, dismantle the criminal network, and track down fleeing members of the syndicate.
He reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for cultism and violent crime, stressing that the operation highlights the police’s commitment to ensuring public safety across Delta State.
The spokesman called on parents, schools, community leaders, religious institutions, and youths to see the fight against cultism as a collective responsibility. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible intelligence to aid security agencies.
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