CP Rashid B. Afegbua, PSC, mnips
By Oluchi Omai
CALABAR, 20 August 2025 — The Cross River State Police Command has arrested three suspected cult members and recovered a locally made pistol along with two live cartridges during a routine patrol in Calabar.
According to a statement released by SP Ugbo Irene, ANIPR Police Public Relations Officer for the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State. The arrest took place at around 10:20 a.m. on Wednesday, 20 August, when officers from the Anti-Kidnapping Squad intercepted a suspicious Hyundai Elantra vehicle near the Technical Roundabout in the 8 Miles area. The vehicle, with registration number CAL-894-GG, was carrying three male occupants.
Upon searching the vehicle, police recovered a locally made pistol and two live cartridges from one of the suspects, identified as 20-year-old Jessy Moga.
 |
| Recovered Firearms |
Further investigation revealed that the three suspects — Jessy Moga (20), Oshaka Joseph (29), and Joseph Odey (29) — are members of the Neo Black Movement of Africa, commonly known as the Axe Men Confraternity. During questioning, the suspects admitted to being part of the cult group and claimed the firearm was handed to them by a former leader known as Santos. Santos is reportedly linked to the shooting of a university lecturer at the University of Cross River State in April this year.
Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, PSC, mnips, has ordered a discreet investigation into the case to ensure all individuals connected to the crime are brought to justice. “We remain committed to flushing out criminal elements and maintaining peace and safety in all parts of the state,” he said.
He also appealed to parents and guardians to be more vigilant and to monitor their children's activities. “We urge the public to report any suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station or security agency,” CP Afegbua added.
The Command reassures residents of its ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and peaceful Cross River State.
0 Comments