Security operatives have arrested 13 suspected cult members during an initiation ceremony in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, in a late-night raid that disrupted what authorities say was a large underground gathering.
The suspects were picked up in a forest between Alode and Onne in the early hours of Sunday after security forces stormed the location based on intelligence reports.
An eyewitness identified as Lene told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that nearly 100 young men had assembled in the forest for what was believed to be a cult initiation exercise.
He said the gathering was already underway when security operatives arrived at the scene, forcing panic among participants.
“On sighting the approach of security operatives, many of the cultists fled deeper into the forest,” he said. “However, over 13 of them were apprehended at the scene, while others escaped.”
The witness further identified the group as members of the Aiye Confraternity, also known as Black Axe, adding that forest locations are often used for such clandestine activities to avoid detection and strengthen territorial influence.
Confirming the operation, the spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, ASP Blessing Agabe, said the suspects are currently in custody.
“Yes, I can confirm the arrests. Investigation has commenced,” she stated, without giving further operational details.
The arrest comes amid heightened security concerns in Rivers State, where cult-related violence and gang activities have continued to pose challenges in several local government areas.
In response, a joint security task force comprising the Police, Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) recently launched coordinated operations aimed at curbing cultism, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
Authorities say the latest raid is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in forested and remote areas across the state.
Investigations into the arrested suspects are ongoing, while efforts continue to track down those who escaped the scene.
