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The Imo State Police Command has arrested seven persons over alleged involvement in cultism.
The police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
Okoye said the suspects were arrested following credible intelligence.
He stated, “On 6th October this year, the CP’s surveillance squad, acting on credible intelligence, raided a suspected cultist hideout in Irete and arrested five suspects who were actively engaged in initiation rituals. At the scene of the arrest, the operatives recovered a locally fabricated shotgun, three rounds of live cartridges, one expanded cartridge, suspected Cannabis Sativa, and a dagger”.
“The arrested suspects, Wisdom Obiora, 22, Eke Charles, 20, Joseph Akachukwu, 24, Ohaegbulam Bright, 25, and Ugorji Onyekachi, 19 confessed to their affiliation with the New Black Movement of Africa. They disclosed that they had been coerced into cultism by an individual known as Black Face”.
“This alarming trend highlights the ongoing issue of young individuals being drawn into cult activities, often under duress or manipulation.”
According to the spokesperson, it noted that its operatives from the Orji Divisional Headquarters made further strides by apprehending two additional suspected cultists, David Obinna and Ebuka Mba, both 22 years old, near the front gate of Imo State University on Monday.
“During the operation, one locally made pistol, two rounds of live cartridges, and weeds suspected to be Cannabis Sativa were recovered from the suspects”.
“Upon interrogation, they admitted to being members of the Black Axe confraternity. Efforts are underway to apprehend and prosecute the manufacturers and distributors of the locally-made firearms.
“The Command assured the public that thorough investigations are ongoing, and those apprehended will face prosecution upon the completion of credible inquiries. These operations reflect the Command’s commitment to rid the State of cult-related crimes and to ensure a safer environment for Imolites.”
The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, urged parents to discourage their children from associating with cult groups.
Danjuma emphasised the importance of promoting meaningful and constructive activities within families that enhance community well-being and contribute to a peaceful society.
