Police Apprehend Suspected Cultist, Recover Firearm
Officers from the Nekede Division of the Imo State Police Command have successfully apprehended an individual suspected to be a member of the Neo Black Movement of Africa (NBM), also known as Black Axe, in connection with an attempted murder incident.
A locally fabricated pistol was also recovered during the operation.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Deputy Superintendent of Police Henry Okoye, disclosed this information in a statement dated Monday, May 11, 2026.
Okoye explained that the arrest was made following a distress call received on Friday, May 9, 2026, at approximately 2200 hours, from the Vigilante Coordinator of Umuoma, Nekede, reporting that a young man had been attacked and shot by individuals suspected to be cultists.
The spokesperson stated that, acting promptly on the information, police operatives were immediately dispatched to the scene and arrested Isa Chinagro, a 19-year-old male, originally from Ogwa, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, but residing on Royce Road, Owerri Municipal.
According to Okoye, preliminary investigations identified the suspect as a member of the notorious Neo Black Movement of Africa (NBM), commonly referred to as Black Axe.
He further noted that during the operation, the police recovered a locally made single-barrel pistol and one spent cartridge from the suspect, while other members of the gang managed to flee the scene.
The victim was rescued and transported to the hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.
Meanwhile, the Command has initiated a manhunt for the fleeing gang members, and the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has commenced further investigation into the matter.
The Command also emphasized that cult-related activities pose a serious threat to public peace and safety, and urged parents and guardians to closely monitor and caution their children and wards against involvement in cultism, drug abuse, and other criminal associations that jeopardize their future and the safety of society.
The Command encourages residents to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police with timely and credible information through the nearest Police Station or the Command’s emergency line: 0803 477 3600.
