Rivers State Police Crack Down on Cultists Ahead of Confraternity Day
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed operatives to raid cultists’ hideouts, including hotels, to prevent the Confraternity Day celebration from taking place. This action aims to avoid potential attacks and bloodbaths by rival cult groups across the state, including higher education campuses.
Authorities have received intelligence about the feared cult group ‘Neo-Black Movement,’ also known as ‘Aye’ or ‘Black Axe,’ planning a statewide Founder’s Day celebration. The command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement released in Port Harcourt on Saturday.
The statement highlights that the celebration, scheduled for July 7, 2024, is intended to be observed nationwide, particularly in higher education institutions. The Neo-Black Movement is notorious for campus homicides, inter-cult fights, extreme violent behavior, and other illegal activities.
Iringe-Koko emphasized that the event could spark violent attacks, inter-cult confrontations, and other criminal activities in and around postsecondary campuses. The police anticipate that the AIYE Day celebration will likely be held in the cult group’s dens and strongholds, providing opportunities for counter-cult activities, forced initiations, and other crimes.
To prevent any adverse incidents, Commissioner Disu has ordered all Area Commanders, DPOs, and tactical team commanders to conduct pre-emptive raids on identified cult hideouts, blackspots, and hotels. He also directed visible and effective patrols, especially around higher education campuses and public places, to intercept cult members and frustrate their plans.
Educational institutions are advised to increase security measures and maintain strict supervision to ensure student safety. Parents, guardians, and community leaders are urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police.
The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order and protecting lives and property, stating they will deal decisively with anyone attempting to disturb the peace.
