A suspected member of the Neo Black Movement of Africa (NBMA), commonly known as Black Axe, has been arrested by operatives of the Imo State Police Command in connection with an attempted murder incident in Nekede, Owerri. The arrest followed a distress call from the Vigilante Coordinator of Umuoma, Nekede, reporting that a young man was attacked and shot by suspected cultists. Police swiftly responded, leading to the apprehension of 19-year-old Isa Chinagro, a native of Ogwa, Mbaitoli Local Government Area, and resident on Royce Road, Owerri Municipal.
According to the command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye, the suspect was identified during preliminary investigations as a member of the notorious NBMA. During the operation, police recovered a locally made single-barrel pistol and one expended cartridge from the suspect. Other members of the gang managed to flee the scene, prompting an ongoing manhunt. The victim was rescued and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.
The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has taken over further investigations into the incident. Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, has issued a stern warning against cult-related activities, emphasizing their threat to public peace and safety. He urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and wards, cautioning them against involvement in cultism, drug abuse, and other criminal associations that jeopardize their future and societal safety.
The police command also called on residents to remain vigilant and support law enforcement by providing timely and credible information. The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the command’s emergency line: 0803 477 3600. In a bid to curb cult-related violence, the command has intensified security measures around two federal institutions—Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) and Federal Polytechnic, Nekede.
This arrest underscores the police’s commitment to cracking down on cultism and ensuring the safety of communities, especially in areas with high student populations. As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on dismantling cult networks and restoring public confidence in the security environment. The incident highlights the persistent challenge of cultism in Nigeria’s educational institutions and the urgent need for coordinated efforts between security agencies and communities to prevent future attacks.
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