By Seun Ibiyemi
The Delta State Police Command has foiled a planned cult attack and dismantled armed robbery networks operating in Warri, Ughelli and Sapele, arresting several suspects and recovering three firearms and 27 rounds of live ammunition.
The Command said the breakthroughs were achieved through intelligence-led operations carried out by operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team and the Quick Response Squad.
In Ughelli, operatives led by ASP Julius Robinson stormed the Ekredjebor area at about 11:35 p.m. on February 27, 2026, and arrested one Oghenemaro Festus of Upper Agbarho. A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of a pump-action gun loaded with two live cartridges.
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Police sources linked the suspect to a string of house-to-house robberies that had heightened tension among residents. Efforts have been intensified to track down other members of the gang who remain at large.
Similarly, following complaints by residents of Sapele over serial robberies allegedly perpetrated by a motorcycle-riding syndicate, the CP-Special Assignment Team carried out a targeted operation in the early hours of March 1, 2026. At about 3:35 a.m., operatives arrested Prince Omanure, also known as “Anini,” aged 21, in the Ghana Area of Sapele.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly led officers to a bush along the Warri-Sapele Road near the Trailer Park, where a fabricated Beretta pistol loaded with eight rounds of live ammunition had been concealed.
The Command said the suspect had provided useful information, while investigations were ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
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In a separate operation in Warri, operatives of the Quick Response Squad led by SP Achem Collins acted on credible intelligence that members of a notorious cult group were assembling to launch attacks on residents.
The team raided a building on Okwagbe Street in Igbudu, Warri, where the gathering was taking place. Although several suspects fled on sighting the police, three persons Nelson Mudiagha, alias “Diara,” Efe Nyore and Ebube Ifeanyi were arrested.
A thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of a cut-to-size locally fabricated double-barrel gun and 17 live cartridges concealed within the building.
The suspects allegedly confessed to being members of the Black Axe Confraternity, also known as Ayes.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, reassured residents that the safety of law-abiding citizens remains the Command’s top priority.
He reiterated the resolve of the Delta State Police Command to dismantle cult groups, armed robbery syndicates and other violent criminal networks across the state.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said investigations were ongoing and efforts were in top gear to apprehend fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.
