Police arrest suspected Black Axe cultist, recover pistol
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another operational breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on cultism, illegal arms possession and related criminal activities across the state.
On 24 February 2026, at about 3:00 pm, operatives on routine patrol in Nsit Atai Local Government Area intercepted a motorcycle carrying two passengers for a stop-and-search operation.
DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer, on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, said upon being directed to stop, one of the passengers, who had a black handbag strapped around his neck, suddenly alighted and fled in an attempt to evade arrest.
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Etim Ekpimah
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has recorded another operational breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on cultism, illegal arms possession and related criminal activities across the state.
On 24 February 2026, at about 3:00 pm, operatives on routine patrol in Nsit Atai Local Government Area intercepted a motorcycle carrying two passengers for a stop-and-search operation.
DSP Timfon John, Police Public Relations Officer, on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, said upon being directed to stop, one of the passengers, who had a black handbag strapped around his neck, suddenly alighted and fled in an attempt to evade arrest.
“The officers swiftly pursued and apprehended the suspect. A search conducted at the point of arrest led to the recovery of the following items: One locally fabricated pistol, several wraps of a substance suspected to be Indian hemp, one lighter, and one small mobile phone.
“Preliminary interrogation identified the suspect as Abasi-Ama Bassey (male), of Ikot Nkwo Village in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. He allegedly confessed to being a member of the notorious Black Axe secret cult confraternity,” she noted.
John stated that the command has commenced discreet and comprehensive investigations aimed at dismantling the criminal network and apprehending other members of the syndicate. Efforts are also underway to ensure diligent prosecution in accordance with extant laws.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance stance against cultism, unlawful possession of firearms and other criminal acts.
He warned individuals and groups involved in violent or unlawful activities to desist immediately or face the full weight of the law.
The command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information.
