The Black Axe is a Nigerian confraternity and organized crime group based out of Benin City, Nigeria. It emerged from the Neo-Black Movement of Africa (NBM), an anti-colonial student movement formed in 1977. In the following decades, the gang gradually turned to increased violence and involvement in crime. NBM disassociated itself from Black Axe. However, reports and law enforcement investigations suggest that NBM is closely intertwined with Black Axe, serving as a cover for its illicit activities (source, source).

A recent Interpol operation, targeting members and assets of the gang in over 20 countries, highlights the group’s global reach. It is the largest organized crime group in West Africa, and its international expansion and extensive network make it a significant criminal threat (source).

Key Judgment 1. It is highly likely that Black Axe is a significant threat to public safety.

Key Judgment 2. It is likely that the group’s organizational structure and financial resilience enable it to sustain its operations.

Key Judgment 3. It is likely that the Black Axe organized crime group benefits from Nigeria’s political and economic conditions in its recruitment efforts.