Chinedum Elekwachi
Police arrested seven suspected members of the Black Axe Confraternity over alleged election thuggery in Njikoka and Anaocha Local Government Areas of Anambra.
State Police Command spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga made disclosed this on Sunday.
Ikenga said officers arrested the suspects during an initiation ceremony in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, both in Njikoka LGA.
“In an effort to curb cult-related violence and ensure a peaceful atmosphere ahead of the Nov.8, governorship election in the Anambra.
“Operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS) Enugu-Ukwu collaboratex with Agunechemba Vigilante Operatives.
“In the early hours today, they arrested seven suspected members of the Black Axe Confraternity.
“Police arrested the suspects during an initiation ceremony in a bush at Obinagu, Abagana, both in Njikoka LGA.
“A 25-litre keg containing red liquid substance, Red ritual cloth, two wooden drums, footwear belonging to the suspects and other accomplices were arecovered.
“The suspects were males including Emmanuel Ugorji, 29, Ogamba Anthony, 22 and Chibuzor Agudiegu, 25.
“Others are Destiny Okasi, 22, Udewulu Nzube, 19, Ifeanyi Anikpe, 21, and Sunday Akuma, 20.
“Preliminary information revealed that the initiation activities were part of their evil ceremony and grooming for election thuggery in Njikoka and Anaocha LGAs.
“When the suspects saw the operatives, they tried to run but the officers swiftly chased and apprehended them.
“Meanwhile, an Investigation is ongoing to identify and arrest fleeing members of the syndicate.
“Also, to uncover other linked cult cells within the axis,” he said.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu reiterates that the Command will not tolerate activities that threaten peace, especially in the build-up to the election.
He urged parents, community leaders and youth groups to intensify moral guidance and discourage involvement in cultism and political violence.
He also called on the public to continue providing credible information.
According to him, this will assist in preventing crime and apprehending criminal elements.
