Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have recorded major breakthroughs in separate operations targeting cult and armed robbery networks in different parts of the state.
Acting on credible intelligence, the Command’s Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) carried out coordinated raids that led to arrests and recovery of firearms, ammunition, suspected fraud devices, and fetish items.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the first operation took place on October 6, 2025, at the residence of one Onwugbenu Olisa, located at Umunye Bypass by Power Line, Ibusa, in Oshimili North Local Government Area.
During the raid, one Okechukwu Okwudili Nwanolue, a 45-year-old male native of Abala-Obodo community in Aniocha North Local Government Area, was arrested, while the said Onwugbenu Olisa fled the scene and is currently at large.
A thorough search of the premises led to the recovery of one pump-action gun loaded with three live cartridges, two laptops suspected to be used for internet fraud, a live snail, and other fetish items concealed in a shrine.
The police spokesman noted that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect and other members of the cult gang.
In a separate operation, conducted on October 7, 2025, CP-SAT operatives also stormed a criminal hideout at Adheje community along the Sapele-Warri road, following credible intelligence on a gang responsible for multiple armed robberies along the busy highway.
Two suspects — Lucky Tenaera (24), a native of Okwetolor community in Sapele LGA, and Prince Emma Esemedafe (38), from Effurun in Uvwie LGA — were arrested at the scene. Items recovered include one locally-made long gun, eleven ATM cards, and other incriminating materials.
SP Edafe confirmed that both suspects are currently in police custody and that investigations are ongoing to uncover other members of the syndicate and bring them to justice.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure the safety of residents across Delta State.
