The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested two suspected members of the Black Axe Confraternity during an intelligence-led operation in Uyo, the state capital.
The arrest, which took place last Saturday at about 4:30 p.m., followed credible intelligence reports that suspected cultists were allegedly conducting initiation activities at a secondary school located along Oron Road.
Police sources disclosed that upon arrival of patrol operatives at the scene, the suspects took to their heels, abandoning a red mini-bus with registration number NYA-164XA. A hot pursuit ensued, leading to the apprehension of two male suspects identified as Anietie Isaac and Unyime Effiong.
A search of the scene led to the recovery of several incriminating items, including one axe, a brown calabash, a bottle of Lord’s alcoholic drink, assorted incense materials, coloured handkerchiefs, and a sticker.
The suspects, along with the recovered exhibits, are currently in police custody and are undergoing a thorough investigation to determine the extent of their involvement and possible links to other criminal activities.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on cultism and other related crimes. He assured residents of the state that the Police would sustain aggressive operations to rid Akwa Ibom of criminal elements and ensure public safety.
The Police also urged members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid crime prevention and detection.
The arrest was confirmed in a statement signed by Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command.
