The Delta State Police Command says its operatives have arrested seven suspects and recovered two firearms as well as eight live cartridges in separate intelligence-led operations across the state.

The command disclosed this in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe.

Edafe said the operations were part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on cultism, illegal possession of firearms and other violent crimes in Delta State.

He explained that operatives attached to the Command Anti-Cult Unit, acting on credible intelligence, raided a suspected criminal hideout at Eku-Igun community in Ethiope West Local Government Area on May 11, 2026, at about 2:30 a.m.

According to him, six suspects linked to an unlawful society were arrested during the operation, while one locally made single-barrelled gun, one double-barrelled locally made pistol and two live cartridges were recovered from the suspects.

He stated that investigation was ongoing to determine the suspects’ possible involvement in recent cult-related killings and other violent crimes within Eku, Igun, Abraka and neighbouring communities, adding that efforts were being intensified to arrest other fleeing members of the gang.

In a separate operation, Edafe said operatives of the Safe Delta team attached to the Head Bridge nipping point intercepted a suspect identified as Mokwunye Prince Jerry, 32, on May 13, 2026, at about 3:40 p.m., during a routine stop-and-search operation.

He explained that the suspect, who was riding a motorcycle and carrying a sack bag, was searched and found in possession of six packets of live cartridges.

Preliminary investigation, according to the police spokesman, revealed that the suspect allegedly claimed to be a member of a hunters/vigilante group in Ibusa and further stated that one Anthony, who is currently at large, directed him to collect the ammunition.

The Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the operatives for the successful operations and reiterated the command’s commitment to combating cultism, illegal possession of firearms and other violent crimes in the state.

He also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to support the police with credible and timely information to aid ongoing operations and enhance public safety. (The Nation)

Update news