Police operatives in Calabar have arrested three young men suspected to be members of a secret cult group, the Neo Black Movement of Africa, also known as the Axe Men Confraternity. The arrest was made during a routine patrol by the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Cross River State Police Command.
The suspects — Jessy Moga (20), Oshaka Joseph (29), and Joseph Odey (29) were intercepted around the 8 Miles axis by Technical Roundabout in Calabar on Tuesday morning. They were inside a Hyundai Elantra car with registration number CAL-894-GG when the police flagged them down.
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Irene Ugbo, officers discovered a locally made pistol and two live cartridges during a search of the vehicle. The firearm was reportedly found in possession of Jessy Moga.
“Upon conducting a search, the operatives recovered a locally made pistol and two live cartridges from one of the suspects,” the statement read.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are members of the Neo Black Movement of Africa. During questioning, the three suspects confessed to belonging to the group and revealed further troubling details about their operations.
According to the statement, the suspects disclosed that the weapon found with them had been handed over by a former leader of their cult group, identified only as “Santos.” They further alleged that Santos was involved in a shooting incident in April 2025, in which a lecturer at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) was seriously injured.
The Police Command has now launched a full investigation into the matter. The State Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, has directed a discreet probe aimed at uncovering all individuals linked to the incident and ensuring that they face the full weight of the law.
“This arrest is part of our ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure public safety,” CP Afegbua said. He emphasized that the police will not rest until all those responsible for cult-related violence and other crimes in the state are brought to justice.
Cultism has remained a persistent problem in many parts of Nigeria, including Cross River State. Young people are often lured into these secret societies with promises of power, protection, and brotherhood. However, cult clashes, assassinations, and violent crimes have led to many deaths and left communities living in fear.
Calabar, once known for its peace and hospitality, has witnessed a rise in cult-related activities in recent years. Security agencies have continued to launch crackdowns on cultists and other criminal groups, especially in urban centers like Calabar South, Calabar Municipality, and parts of 8 Miles.
The April shooting of a university lecturer at UNICROSS sent shockwaves through the academic community. Though the police did not disclose the identity of the lecturer or the extent of injuries, the new link to the suspects has brought renewed attention to the case.
Residents in the area where the arrest was made have praised the efforts of the police. One trader near the Technical Roundabout, who spoke under anonymity, said the area had become a hotspot for suspicious movements at night. “We thank the police for stepping up patrols. These boys have been terrorizing us quietly. We hope more of them will be caught,” she said.
Meanwhile, CP Afegbua has appealed to parents and guardians to be more involved in the lives of their children, urging them to monitor their activities and friendships. “The fight against cultism is not for security agencies alone. We need families, schools, religious leaders, and communities to play their part,” he said.
The Commissioner also advised the public to report any suspicious behavior or criminal activity to the nearest police station or through official channels. He assured that all reports would be treated with confidentiality and seriousness.
As investigations continue, the police have promised to track down the cult leader known as Santos and other members involved in the cult’s operations. The arrested suspects are expected to face prosecution once investigations are concluded.
This recent breakthrough by the Cross River State Police highlights the growing concern over cultism in tertiary institutions and urban centers across the country. With schools preparing to resume for a new academic session, security experts are calling for increased surveillance and anti-cult sensitization campaigns to keep students safe.
