Delta Police Arrest Notorious Robbery Syndicate Targeting Churches, Recover Arms

By Diafa Doubra,

The Delta State Police Command has arrested two suspected members of a notorious robbery syndicate accused of attacking churches across the state and carting away instruments and other valuables. The suspects were nabbed during a foiled attack on a church in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday, September 17, by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, the operation followed a series of complaints from residents about the activities of a gang that specialised in raiding churches, particularly at night. Acting on these reports, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, directed Divisional Police Officers to intensify intelligence-driven patrols and ensure the culprits were brought to justice.

The breakthrough came on Tuesday, September 16, when the Command received a distress call about an imminent armed attack on the Dominican City Church, located along Polytechnic Road by Sticals Hotel, Ogwashi-Uku. Responding swiftly, operatives from the Ogwashi-Uku Division, led by Divisional Police Officer CSP Israel Okomoyon, in collaboration with local vigilantes, intercepted a gold-coloured Toyota Sienna van with registration number EFR-150-XB.

Inside the vehicle were two young men later identified as Emmanuel Emiowor, age 21, and Noah Philip, age 20, both residents of PTI Road, Warri. A search of the suspects and the vehicle led to the recovery of several weapons, including one pump-action gun, three locally-made single-barrel guns, one locally-fabricated revolver gun, one live cartridge, and an iron rod believed to be used for breaking church doors.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to being members of a larger syndicate that specialises in attacking churches across the state. Police said some looted church properties linked to the gang have already been recovered, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members still at large.

Reaffirming the Command’s resolve to stamp out criminality, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi vowed that Delta State will never be allowed to become a safe haven for criminals. He urged residents to continue cooperating with the police, stressing that community support remains critical to sustaining the recent gains in crime-fighting.

The CP further reminded citizens that they can report suspicious activities or seek assistance by contacting the Command’s emergency line: 08036684974, or by visiting the nearest police station.

The arrested suspects and recovered exhibits are currently in police custody as discreet investigations continue.