Delta Police Arrest Suspected Cultists, Recover Firearms, Mobile Devices, and Abandoned Tricycle in Separate Operations

By Diafa Doubra, Warri 

The Delta State Police Command has recorded fresh successes in its ongoing crackdown on cultism, armed criminality, and the illegal proliferation of firearms across the state. In two decisive operations carried out in Agbor and Warri, officers apprehended suspected cult members and recovered multiple locally fabricated weapons, mobile devices, and an abandoned tricycle. The development was confirmed in a press release issued on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe.

The first breakthrough occurred on November 8, 2025, after police received credible intelligence that members of the Eiye Confraternity were mobilising around Ojeifo Street by Iduwe in Agbor. Acting on the tip-off, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Michael Obekpa, led patrol teams and operatives of the Civilian Anti-Cult Unit to the location. Their swift response led to the arrest of two suspected cultists Agu Nnamdi of Ohumere Quarters, Agbor, and Promise Banco of Iduwe by Ojeifo Street, Agbor-Obi. In an attempt to conceal evidence, the suspects hid a locally fabricated pistol inside a black nylon bag, but officers uncovered the weapon during a thorough search. Police say both men are in custody while efforts are underway to track other gang members who fled the scene during the operation.

In a separate incident, surveillance operatives from ‘B’ Division, Warri, intercepted an abandoned tricycle loaded with weapons and electronic devices after a high-speed pursuit. The incident took place on November 16 at about 9:30 a.m. when officers on routine patrol along Arubi Street off DECO Road spotted a tricyclist carrying two passengers and driving aggressively against traffic. Their suspicious behaviour triggered a chase that continued into First Marine Quarters. Before the officers could apprehend them, the suspects jumped out of the tricycle and escaped through adjoining streets. A search of the abandoned vehicle led to the recovery of two locally fabricated double-barrel guns, nine assorted mobile phones, four power banks, and a screwdriver. Police have since intensified stop-and-search operations in the area to locate and arrest the fleeing suspects.

Reacting to the successful operations, Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to crush criminal networks and stem the rising tide of cult-related activities across the state. He urged residents to remain vigilant and provide useful information that can aid law enforcement efforts, assuring the public that all reports will be treated with utmost confidentiality.