The Imo State Police Command detained 14 suspected suspects on Tuesday for allegedly engaging in cult-related activities in Imo.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Henry Okoye, made this known to newsmen in Owerri, during the parade of the suspects.
The Police stated that the breakthrough was made in their hideout in Irete, in the Owerri West Council Area of Imo state, following an intelligence led search.
The command said: “The Imo State Police Command under the leadership of CP Aboki Danjuma, has recorded another significant breakthrough in the onslaught against cultism and other vices in the State. This is evident in the arrest of 14 suspected members of the Black-Axe confraternity on Monday, 6/05/2024, while they were carrying out cultism related activities.
“The arrest of the suspects were sequel to an intelligence-led raid on a suspected criminal hideout at Irete in Owerri West LGA of Imo State, by operatives of the Command on routine confidence-building patrol. Recovered from these suspects include; One locally made single barrel pistol, two rounds of live cartridges, and other incriminating items.
“The suspects are currently in Police custody where a thorough investigation has been initiated to apprehend other members of the gang, the manufacturer and dealers of the locally made gun. They will be arraigned in court upon completion of the investigation.
“Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police has assured the residents of Imo State that the Command will not relent in its commitment to crackdown on cultism and other vices in the State. He advises parents and guardians to caution their wards against indulging in cultism and other criminal acts,” he concluded.
