Imo State Police have arrested five suspected cultists in Irete, Owerri West, following an intelligence-led operation targeting cult activities.

[dropcap]O[/dropcap]peratives of the Imo State Police Command have arrested five suspected cultists in an intelligence-led operation at Irete, Owerri West Local Government Area.

The suspects—Uche Ibejiako, 26, from Owerri Municipal; Mariano Daniel, 24, from Delta State; Michael Chukwuemeka, 23, from Oguta Local Government Area; and Annointing Ezeh, 23, from Irete—were apprehended as part of a strategic effort to combat cult-related crimes in the state.

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According to the command’s spokesman, Henry Okoye, all suspects have confessed to being members of the Black Axe Confraternity, a notorious criminal group.

The investigation is ongoing to gather more evidence on their activities. The suspects will face charges in court once the investigation concludes.

Imo State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, encouraged the public to support crime-fighting efforts by reporting suspicious activities to local police stations.

Such community involvement is deemed essential for maintaining peace and security.

Previously, on July 27, 2024, the police arrested Chibueze Kalu, a suspected cultist, and recovered a locally made pistol from him. Kalu also admitted to being affiliated with the Black Axe Confraternity.