By Kenneth Orusi, Managing Editor
The Delta State Police Command has foiled a suspected cult initiation ceremony in Orogun Community, Ughelli North Local Government Area, recovering firearms, ammunition, seven vehicles and other exhibits during an intelligence-led operation.
According to the Command, operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS) acted on credible intelligence in the early hours of Sunday, July 19, 2026, indicating that members of the Black Axe Confraternity, also known as Aye, were conducting an initiation ceremony in a forest within Orogun.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, disclosed in a statement on Monday that the operatives stormed the location, where the suspected cultists allegedly opened fire on sighting the police team.
He said the officers responded with superior tactical firepower, forcing the suspects to flee into the adjoining forest along the Abbi–Abraka axis.
Edafe stated that a search of the area led to the recovery of one pump-action gun, one cut-to-size double-barrel gun, seven live cartridges, two expended cartridges, seven vehicles, six mobile phones, suspected cult regalia and other personal effects believed to have been abandoned by the fleeing suspects.
He added that all recovered exhibits are in police custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
Commending the operatives for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, praised their professionalism and dedication to duty.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and the sustained fight against cultism and other violent crimes across the state.
He also appealed to residents to continue providing timely and credible information to the Police, stressing that public cooperation remains vital in ongoing efforts to enhance security and ensure the safety of lives and property throughout Delta State.
