Cross River Police arrest 10 suspected cultists in Abini

The Cross River State Police Command has arrested 10 suspected members of the Axe Men Confraternity during a raid in the Abini community of the Biase Local Government Area. The operation was conducted by the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Sector 2, following weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance.

The arrests were prompted by a petition regarding cult activities submitted by Abini residents to the Commissioner of Police on July 29, 2026. During the early morning raid on August 22, 2026, police recovered several items, including a locally made pistol, a battle axe, a dagger, a beret featuring a secret cult logo, and police camouflage trousers.

The suspects, ranging in age from 18 to 27, allegedly admitted to their membership in the confraternity during preliminary interrogations. Police officials stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other individuals connected to the group.