In a dramatic operation that underscores the growing synergy between law enforcement and community vigilance, the Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old suspected cultist, Anyanwu Izuchukwu Gabriel, believed to be a member of the notorious Black Axe Confraternity.
The arrest took place on Saturday, June 8, 2025, following a swift intervention by a combined team of operatives from the Independence Layout Police Division, the Anti-Cultism Squad, and members of the local Neighbourhood Watch group. Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives moved in just in time to rescue the suspect from an irate mob that had descended on him in a fit of jungle justice.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the suspect was found with a locally fabricated Beretta pistol, further intensifying suspicions about his involvement in violent cult-related activities. Gabriel reportedly sustained severe bodily injuries during the attack by the mob and is currently undergoing treatment under police watch.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is a confessed member of the Black Axe Confraternity,” Ndukwe stated. “Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the cult group who were reportedly with him during the incident.”
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, praised the swift, coordinated effort between the police operatives and the vigilant community members that led to the arrest and weapon recovery. He, however, strongly condemned the mob attack, stressing that resorting to jungle justice undermines due process and obstructs lawful investigation.
“While we appreciate the commitment of the public in assisting security agencies to combat crime, we must not allow emotions to override the rule of law,” CP Giwa warned. “Mob actions often destroy crucial evidence and jeopardize the administration of justice.”
He reassured the public that the Enugu State Police Command is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to dismantle cult networks and bring all criminal elements to justice. Citizens were urged to continue cooperating with security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious activities, rather than taking the law into their own hands.
This latest arrest adds to the growing list of clampdowns on secret cults across Nigeria, as authorities intensify the fight against the resurgence of cult-related violence and criminality in urban centers.
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