Operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS), Enugu-Ukwu, in a joint operation with Agunechemba Vigilante operatives, have arrested seven suspected members of the Black Axe Confraternity allegedly undergoing initiation ahead of recruitment for election thuggery in Njikoka and Anaocha Local Government Areas of Anambra State.
The suspects were apprehended in the early hours of Saturday, October 26, 2025, during a raid on a bush hideout in Obinagu, Abagana, where the initiation was taking place.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, items recovered from the scene include a 25-litre keg containing a red liquid substance, red ritual cloth, two wooden drums, and footwear belonging to the suspects and other fleeing accomplices.
The arrested suspects, all male, were identified as Ugorji Emmanuel (29), Ogamba Chinuike Anthony (22), Chibuzor Agudiegu (25), Destiny Okasi (22), Udewulu Nzube (19), Ifeanyi Anikpe (21), and Sunday Akuma (20).
Preliminary investigations suggest that the initiation was part of a broader scheme to recruit and groom young cultists as political thugs ahead of the November 8 governorship election in the state. The suspects reportedly attempted to flee upon sighting security operatives but were swiftly apprehended after a chase.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, condemned the act, stressing that the Command will not tolerate any activities capable of undermining public peace or the integrity of the forthcoming election.
He urged parents, community leaders, and youth groups to strengthen moral guidance and discourage young people from participating in cultism or political violence. The CP also appealed to residents to provide timely and credible information that could help security agencies prevent crime and arrest criminal elements.
The Police said investigations are ongoing to track down fleeing members of the syndicate and dismantle other linked cult cells within the area.
“The Command remains resolute in ensuring a secure and peaceful electoral process across Anambra State,” the statement concluded.
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