June 7: Police Warn Public Of Potential Cult Initiations Nationwide

The Police Command in Rivers State has cautioned the public about potential cult-related activities expected to take place across the country on June 7.

Naija News reports that the spokesperson for the command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, issued a statement in Port Harcourt on Saturday, revealing that a significant number of Black Axe cultists were planning to commemorate their Founder’s Day.

According to Iringe-Koko, intelligence reports suggest that the confraternity aims to initiate unsuspecting victims into their group and may engage in clashes with rival cults on that day.

“We have received information about the Neo-Black Movement (NBM), also known as Aiye or Black Axe, which intends to hold a nationwide celebration in honor of their Founder’s Day.

“This event, code-named Aiye Day or 7/7, is set to take place in all states of the federation, particularly within institutions of higher learning.

“The command is aware of the confraternity’s history, which includes campus killings, inter-cult clashes, and other violent criminal activities,” she stated.

Iringe-Koko further disclosed that intelligence reports indicate the group plans to disrupt public peace from their strongholds and on tertiary campuses nationwide.

“The ceremony could lead to counter-cult activities, inter-cult violence, and other associated violent crimes in and around tertiary institutions in Rivers State.

“It might also create opportunities for the forced initiation of innocent victims, as well as crimes such as rape and armed robbery,” she warned.

In response, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, Olatunji Disu, has instructed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and tactical team commanders to carry out pre-emptive and responsive raids.

The police spokesperson emphasized that these pre-emptive measures would target cult hideouts, high-risk areas, and hotels that could serve as meeting points for cult leaders.

Police operatives have been directed to prevent the planned event, arrest suspected cultists, and bring them to justice.

“Area commanders, DPOs, and tactical team commanders are to implement visible and effective patrol strategies, closely monitoring all tertiary institution campuses and public places to intercept cult members,” Iringe-Koko added.

“Parents and guardians should closely monitor their children and wards during this period and watch for warning signs in their interactions with friends.

“Additionally, community leaders and security outfits are encouraged to report any unusual gatherings in their area, while religious leaders should educate their congregants about the dangers of secret cults,” she urged.