Police Arrest 10 Suspected Cultists in Cross River

On August 22, 2026, the Cross River State Police Command arrested 10 suspected members of the Axe Men Confraternity during an intelligence-led operation in Abini community, Biase Local Government Area. The arrests were executed by the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Sector 2, following a petition submitted by the community on July 29, 2026, regarding suspected cult activities.

The suspects, aged between 18 and 27, were identified as Jester Enyi, Godwill Mansala, Prosper Okey, Emmanuel Uno, Onyebuchi Eyong, Elisha Emmanuel, Christian Esu, Daniel Uno, Nelson Ibete, and Roland Uno. During the operation, police recovered a locally made pistol, a battle axe, a dagger, a beret with a secret cult logo, police camouflage trousers, and a mobile cardigan.

Preliminary interrogations revealed the suspects admitted to belonging to the Axe Men Confraternity. CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue commended the VCRU operatives for their professionalism and emphasized the importance of community partnership in crime prevention.