The Imo State Police Command has announced the arrest of a notorious cultist, who has been on the police’s wanted list due to his involvement in criminal activities across various communities in the state.
According to a statement released on Friday by the State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, the suspect was apprehended at his hideout in Umuguma, located in Owerri West Local Government Area, on February 28. Upon his arrest, the police recovered a locally made pistol along with three rounds of live cartridges from him.
The arrested individual, identified as 26-year-old Paul Munachi, hails from Oforola in Owerri West Local Government Area. Munachi, who was detained by the Anti-Narcotic Squad, had been a prime target for law enforcement due to his alleged involvement in criminal activities throughout the state.
In a statement, Okoye revealed, “During interrogation, the suspect admitted to being a member of the Black Axe confraternity. He confessed to purchasing the firearm from a dealer in Port Harcourt with the intention of seeking revenge for his brother’s death, who was reportedly killed by members of the BAGA confraternity. Additionally, he confessed to participating in various violent crimes in Imo State alongside his associates.”
The police spokesperson emphasized that efforts are underway to apprehend other fugitive members of the criminal group, as well as the individual responsible for manufacturing the seized firearm.
Once the investigation is concluded, the suspect will be brought before the court to face charges.
Okoye reiterated the commitment of the Command to ensuring the safety and security of the state’s residents. He further conveyed a message from the state Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, urging citizens to collaborate with law enforcement and other security agencies in the fight against cultism and other forms of violent crime in Imo State.