By Francis Sadhere

The Delta state police command has arrested forty eight suspected members of Neo Black Movement (aka Black Axe) confraternity in Warri.

Elizabeth Aluka, the lady declared missing by police.

According to the state Police Public Relation Officer (PPRO), SP Celestina Kalu in a statement made available to our correspondent, the suspects were arrested while holding their annual initiations and ceremonies at an undisclosed location in Warri.

She added that the suspects were rounded by men of the Special Anti Robbery Squard (SARS) who were deployed to the location following a tip off.

The statement reads; “On 7/7/2016 at about 2100hrs, while acting on a tip off that members of Neo Black Movement (A.k.a Black Axe) confraternity were holding their annual initiation and anniversary ceremonies at a location in Warri.

“Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) deployed surveillance men to the identified location at Freshville hotel Okuokoko and arrested thirty-six (36) male and twelve (12) female suspects.

“Items recovered from the suspects included NBM hand bands, some weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, black head gears and neck chains, all bearing the logo f NBM.”

She added that investigation into the matter is still in progress.

Meanwhile, the state command has also declared one Miss Elizabeth Aluka ‘f’ missing.

According to SP Kalu, the victim left her home at No. 3 Andiyama Street, Agbor on 3/7/2016 at about 1630hrs to unknown destination and has not been seen since then.

She said the said Elizabeth Aluka is aged 30 years, fair in complexion, speaks English and Ika languages fluently, and of average height.

The Delta State PPRO therefore, members of the public with useful information about the whereabout of the victim to contact the Nigeria Police, Agbor Division in Delta state or the nearest Police station.