Police Arrest 13 Suspected Black Axe Members In Delta, Recover Arms, Vehicles In Forest Raid
Police Arrest 13 Suspected Black Axe Members In Delta, Recover Arms, Vehicles In Forest Raid
According to the command, the Quick Response Squad (QRS), led by its commander, SP Collins Achem, immediately mobilised operatives to prevent the suspected gathering from holding.
The Delta State Police Command says it has arrested 13 suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity, also known as Black Axe, during a late-night tactical operation in Ekraka Community Forest, Kokori, Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state.
The development was confirmed in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, noting that the arrests followed actionable intelligence received on December 20, 2025, indicating that members of the notorious cult group were planning an initiation ceremony deep inside the forest.
According to the command, the Quick Response Squad (QRS), led by its commander, SP Collins Achem, immediately mobilised operatives to prevent the suspected gathering from holding.
At about 11pm, the police team reportedly stormed the identified location.
On sighting the operatives, the suspects were said to have engaged the police in a gun duel, forcing the officers to respond.
The police said the operation ended with the arrest of 13 suspects, while several others escaped further into the forest.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of weapons and other items allegedly linked to cult activities. Exhibits 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 from the scene and 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 determine their individual roles, dismantle the wider cult network and apprehend those who escaped during the raid.
The Delta State Police Command reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on cultism and violent crime, describing the operation as part of sustained efforts to rid the state of criminal gangs.
The police also appealed to parents, schools, community leaders, faith-based organisations and youths to actively support efforts to combat cultism through guidance, mentorship and timely reporting of suspicious activities.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information to security agencies to enhance public safety across the state.
