By Akeem Oduyoye
Not fewer than 13 suspected cult members have been arrested by the Delta State Police Command during a tactical operation in Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state. The suspects were arrested at a forest in Ekraka community, Kokori, following intelligence reports about a planned cult initiation ceremony.
The police also recovered several firearms, dangerous weapons, seven vehicles and other items during the operation. No casualty was reported, while investigations have begun to track other fleeing suspects and dismantle the cult network.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, the arrest followed credible intelligence received on December 20, 2025, that members of the Aiye Confraternity, also known as Black Axe, were gathering in the forest for criminal activities. Acting on the information, the Commander of the Quick Response Squad (QRS), SP Collins Achem, mobilised operatives to the location.
The statement said that at about 11pm, the operatives stormed the forest, but the suspects opened fire on sighting the police team. The officers responded and overpowered the suspects, leading to the arrest of 13 of them, while others escaped into the forest.
Recovered items include two pump-action guns, one double-barrel cut-to-size gun, one single-barrel cut-to-size gun, a battle axe, cult aprons, razor blades, mobile phones, charms and suspected hard drugs. Seven vehicles linked to the suspects were also recovered and taken to the QRS base in Warri.
The police said the suspects are currently in custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded. The command restated its zero tolerance for cultism and violent crime, urging residents to remain vigilant and continue to support the police with useful information.