The Delta State Police Command has foiled a planned cult attack and dismantled armed robbery syndicates across Warri, Ughelli and Sapele, arresting several suspects and recovering firearms and live ammunition.
Spokesperson of the Command, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Monday, describing the operations as a decisive move against violent criminal networks threatening peace in the state.
“The Delta State Police Command, through credible intelligence and well-coordinated operations, has successfully foiled a planned cult attack and dismantled armed robbery networks operating within Warri, Ughelli and Sapele,” Edafe said.
He stressed that the operations underscored the Command’s resolve to rid the state of criminal elements.
Edafe said operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team, led by ASP Julius Robinson, stormed the Ekredjebor area of Ughelli on February 27, 2026, at about 23:35 hours, where one Oghenemaro Festus of Upper Agbarho was arrested.
“Upon search, one pump-action gun loaded with two live cartridges was recovered from the suspect,” Edafe stated.
According to him, the suspect is strongly linked to a series of house-to-house robberies that have unsettled residents in the area.
“This arrest is a major breakthrough. The suspect has been on the Command’s watchlist in connection with multiple robbery incidents. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang,” he added.
In a related development, Edafe said operatives acting on persistent complaints by residents of Sapele about robberies carried out by a motorcycle-riding syndicate launched a targeted operation in the early hours of March 1, 2026.
“At about 0335hrs, one Prince Omanure, also known as ‘Anini’, aged 21 years, of the Ghana Area of Sapele, was arrested,” he disclosed.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly led operatives to a bush along the Warri-Sapele Road near the Trailer Park.
“A fabricated Beretta pistol loaded with eight rounds of live ammunition was recovered from where it was concealed,” Edafe said.
He noted that the suspect had provided useful information to investigators.
“The Command is actively pursuing other members of the syndicate. We assure residents that we will not relent until every member of this gang is brought to justice,” he said.
In Warri, the Police spokesman revealed that operatives of the Quick Response Squad, led by SP Achem Collins, carried out a sting operation on February 27, 2026, at about 0914hrs, following credible intelligence that members of a notorious cult group were assembling to launch attacks on innocent residents.
“The operatives raided a building located at Okwagbe Street, Igbudu, Warri, where the unlawful gathering was taking place. On sighting the Police, several suspects fled in a desperate attempt to evade arrest,” Edafe explained.
However, three suspects, Nelson Mudiagha, also known as Diara; Efe Nyore; and Ebube Ifeanyi, were apprehended.
“A meticulous search of the premises led to the recovery of a cut-to-size locally fabricated double-barrel gun and seventeen live cartridges carefully concealed within the building,” he said.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects confessed to being members of the Black Axe Confraternity, also known as Ayes.
“Investigation is ongoing, and efforts are in top gear to apprehend other fleeing members. The Command will ensure that all those involved face the full wrath of the law,” Edafe stated firmly.
Edafe conveyed the assurance of the Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, that the safety of law-abiding residents remains paramount.
“The Commissioner of Police wishes to assure members of the public that their safety and security remain our top priority. The Command is resolute and uncompromising in its determination to dismantle cult groups, armed robbery syndicates and all violent criminal networks operating within Delta State,” he said.
He urged residents to continue cooperating with the Police by providing credible and timely information.
“We call on the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious movements or activities. Together, we can sustain the peace and security of our dear state,” Edafe added.
