The Cross River State Police Command has arrested 10 suspected members of the Axe Men Confraternity during an intelligence-led operation in Abini community, Biase Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were arrested in the early hours of Saturday, August 22, by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit, Sector 2, following weeks of intelligence gathering, surveillance and operational follow-up.
The operation was launched after the Abini community submitted a petition to the Commissioner of Police on July 29, raising concerns over suspected cult-related activities in the area.
Confirming the arrests, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the operation led to the arrest of 10 suspects identified as Jester Enyi, 25; Godwill Mansala, 22; Prosper Okey, 23; Emmanuel Uno, 26; Onyebuchi Eyong, 22; Elisha Emmanuel, 27; Christian Esu, 25; Daniel Uno, 23; Nelson Ibete, 23; and Roland Uno, 18.
Items recovered from the suspects included a locally made pistol, battle axe, dagger, a beret bearing a secret cult logo, police camouflage trousers and a mobile cardigan.
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According to the police, preliminary interrogation indicated that the suspects admitted to belonging to the Axe Men Confraternity.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, commended the operatives for their professionalism and effective use of intelligence, saying the operation demonstrated the command’s commitment to preventing criminal activities before they escalate into threats to public safety.
He also urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to the police, stressing that community cooperation remains essential to effective crime prevention across the state.
The police said efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals allegedly involved in cult-related activities in the community.
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