In a decisive crackdown on secret cult activities, the Ondo State Police Command has apprehended twenty-five suspected members of the notorious Black Axe confraternity. The suspects were arrested during a planned initiation ceremony in the Uso community, located within the Owo Local Government Area of the state.
Intelligence-Led Operation Thwarts Initiation
The police action, which took place over the weekend, was the result of credible intelligence provided by a concerned citizen. According to the command's spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, operatives were swiftly mobilized and deployed using intelligence-led tactics to disrupt the gathering of the Neo Black Movement (NBM), also known as the Black Axe or 'Aye' cult.
The arrested suspects hail from Edo, Lagos, Osun, and Ondo States, indicating the cross-state nature of the group's operations. During the operation, law enforcement agents recovered one Toyota Highlander SUV and an unregistered motorcycle from the scene.
Suspects Confess, Face Prosecution
Jimoh confirmed that the apprehended individuals are currently in police custody and have confessed to their involvement in cult-related activities. He emphasized that the command would leave no stone unturned in its fight against cultism across Ondo State.
"The arrested suspects are currently in police custody and have confessed to their involvement in cult-related activities. They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation," the police spokesman stated.
Police Commissioner's Stern Warning to Youths
The Commissioner of Police for Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, has issued a strong advisory to youths, urging them to shun all forms of cultism. He stressed that there is no gain in engaging in such acts, as they only lead to grave consequences, including imprisonment and violence.
CP Lawal reassured residents of the state of the command's proactive commitment to maintaining a peaceful and crime-free environment. He further called on the public to continue partnering with the police by providing credible and actionable information to aid in preventing and combating crime.
This raid marks a significant success in the ongoing onslaught by the Ondo State Police Command against cult-related activities, which have been a source of insecurity and violence in various communities.
