The Delta State Police Command has recorded a major operational success in its sustained war against cultism and violent crime, arresting thirteen suspected members of the notorious Aiye Confraternity, also known as Black Axe, and recovering multiple firearms and dangerous weapons during a late-night tactical operation in Ethiope East Local Government Area.
The operation, which took place in the Ekraka Community Forest, Kokori, followed credible intelligence received on December 20, 2025, indicating that suspected cult members were planning an initiation ceremony deep within the forest. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the Commander of the Police Quick Response Squad (QRS), SP Collins Achem, mobilised highly trained operatives to the location to forestall the criminal gathering.
According to the Delta State Police Command, at about 11:00 p.m., QRS operatives arrived at the forest, where they encountered armed suspects who opened fire on the patrol team. The operatives responded decisively, engaging the suspects in a gun duel that resulted in the arrest of thirteen individuals, while several others fled further into the forest under the cover of darkness.
A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of a disturbing cache of weapons and incriminating items, including two automatic pump-action guns, one double-barrel cut-to-size gun, one single-barrel cut-to-size gun, a battle axe, cult aprons bearing “NBM” insignia, razor blades cut into pieces, mobile phones, charms, and suspected hard drugs.
In addition, seven vehicles, believed to belong to members of the cult group and used in their operations, were recovered and towed to the QRS Base in Warri.
The suspects are currently in police custody, as investigations intensify to determine their individual roles, dismantle the wider cult network, and track down other fleeing members of the syndicate.
Festive Relief Across Delta Communities
The development has been widely welcomed by residents across Delta State, especially as it comes during the festive season—a period often associated with heightened security concerns.
Speaking to Fresh Facts Magazine, a resident of Kokori, who requested anonymity, described the operation as “a big relief.”
“This forest has always been a source of fear for us. Knowing that armed cult boys were planning initiation there during Christmas is frightening. We thank the police for acting on time,” the resident said.
In Warri, Asaba, and Ughelli, many residents expressed similar sentiments, praising the police for preventing what could have escalated into violent clashes or reprisal attacks common during end-of-year festivities.
A trader at Effurun Market noted:
“Cult violence usually increases this period. People want to attend church, travel, and celebrate without fear. This arrest shows that the police are alert.”
Youth leaders and community elders also applauded the operation, urging sustained intelligence-led policing to keep criminal elements at bay beyond the festive season.
Police Reaffirm Zero Tolerance for Cultism
In a statement issued by SP Bright Edafe, ANIPR, FCIA, FIPMD, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, the Command reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against cultism and violent crime, warning that security agencies will continue to disrupt criminal hideouts and gatherings across the state.
The police further called on parents, schools, community leaders, faith-based institutions, and youths to see the fight against cultism as a shared responsibility, emphasizing guidance, positive role models, and timely reporting of suspicious activities.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and to continue supporting the police with credible information as collective efforts to maintain peace and safety in Delta State continue.
As Delta residents prepare to celebrate the festive season, the successful forest raid has sent a strong message that law enforcement remains firmly committed to protecting lives and property—and that criminal groups will find no safe haven in the state.
