The Police Command in Rivers State has alerted the public about potential cult-related activities across the country on July 7
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson of the command, stated in Port Harcourt on Saturday that a significant number of Black Axe cultists were planning to commemorate their Founder’s Day.
She revealed that intelligence reports indicate the confraternity aims to initiate innocent victims into their group and might engage in clashes with rival cults on that day.
She said: “We have received information about the Black Axe, which plans to hold a nationwide event in honor of their Founder’s Day.
“The event, called Aiye Day or 7/7, is set to be observed in all states, especially in institutions of higher learning.
“The command is aware of the confraternity’s history, notorious for killings on campuses, inter-cult clashes, and other violent criminal activities.”
Iringe-Koko noted that intelligence reports suggested the group was plotting to disrupt public peace from their strongholds and on tertiary campuses nationwide.
The Police spokesperson said: “The ceremony could potentially lead to counter-cult activities, inter-cult violence, and other associated violent crimes in and around tertiary institutions in Rivers.
She indicated that the occasion might provide an opportunity for the forced initiation of innocent victims, as well as crimes such as rape and armed robbery.
Consequently, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Olatunji Disu, had directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and tactical team commanders to conduct pre-emptive and responsive raids, she added.
She mentioned that police operatives had been instructed to prevent the planned event, arrest suspected cultists, and bring them to justice.
“Parents and guardians should closely monitor their children and wards during this period and watch for warning signs in their interactions with friends.
“Similarly, community leaders and security outfits are encouraged to report any unusual gatherings in their area, while religious leaders should preach to their congregants on the dangers of secret cults,” Iringe-Koko said.
(NAN)
