CITIZENS COMPASS— The Delta State Police Command has arrested nine suspected cultists in separate operations at Obiaruku and Issele-Ikpitime, recovering one locally fabricated single-barrelled gun, one locally made cut-to-size gun, one live cartridge, suspected illicit drugs and a battle axe.
One of the operations occurred on September 13, 2026, when the operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit (SAKU), Ubulu-Uku, acting on credible intelligence, executed a search warrant at premises along Ghana Quarters Street, Umuebu Road, Obiaruku.
The search led to the recovery of one locally fabricated single-barrelled gun, one live cartridge, quantities of suspected illicit drugs, one battle axe, mobile phones and a laptop computer. Seven suspects were arrested: Wisdom Enede, 25; Ocheli Solomon, 42; Nnaji Godstime, 23; Izu Thankgod, 28; Kester Adishi, 31; Oghonogho Pentecost, 28; and Adishi Prince, 28. During preliminary interrogation, the suspects allegedly admitted membership of the Vikings and Black Axe confraternities and made statements regarding their alleged involvement in internet fraud. Investigation is ongoing to establish their individual roles, the source of the recovered firearm and possible links to other criminal activities.
On September 12, 2026, operatives of Onicha-Olona Division responded to a reported cult-related attack on residents of Issele-Ikpitime Village. The Divisional patrol team was immediately deployed, leading to the arrest of Emmanuel Believe, 29, and Israel Nwaobi, 27, both of Issele-Ikpitime Village, and the recovery of one locally made cut-to-size gun. The operatives also rescued a man who sustained a gunshot injury during the attack and evacuated him to a hospital for treatment. Efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the gang.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel E. Erale, psc, mnips, directed that the sources of the recovered firearms and other persons connected with the suspects be identified. He warned against cult-related violence and illegal possession of firearms, assuring that the Command will continue to act on credible intelligence to disrupt criminal activities across the State.
