Delta Police Arrest 32 Suspected Cultists, Recover Firearms and Illicit Drugs in Major Crackdown

By Chukwunonso Eric Warri.

The Delta State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against cultism and violent crime, arresting 32 suspected cultists and recovering firearms, ammunition, communication gadgets, and illicit drugs in separate intelligence-led operations across the state.

The Command disclosed that operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and the Command Anti-Cultism Unit (CACU) carried out coordinated operations that led to the arrests and recovery of dangerous weapons linked to suspected cult activities.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, operatives of the VCRU acted on credible intelligence in the early hours of June 16, 2026, and stormed a suspected cult initiation ground in Agbarho.

The intelligence reportedly indicated that members of the Eiye Confraternity, allegedly connected to recent cult-related killings in Agbor, were planning further violent attacks and the initiation of new members.

Police said the operatives came under gunfire upon arrival at the location but responded professionally, leading to an exchange during which two suspects sustained gunshot injuries.

The operation resulted in the arrest of 25 suspected cultists, while several others escaped from the scene. Recovered exhibits included a pump-action shotgun and a cut-to-size firearm. The injured suspects are currently receiving medical treatment, while investigations continue.

In a separate operation on June 14, 2026, operatives of the Command Anti-Cultism Unit raided a suspected criminal hideout in Azagba-Ogwashi following actionable intelligence.

The raid led to the arrest of seven suspected cultists identified as Obore Ndubrisi, 26; Okafor Okene, 25; Odinigie Sunday, 26; Okohur Destiny, 21; Felix Abraham, 25; Aputa Israel, 27; and Okolie Chinonso Peter, 24.

Items recovered from the suspects included a double-barrel gun, two live cartridges, quantities of substances suspected to be Indian hemp and tramadol, as well as a walkie-talkie.

Police authorities said the suspects and recovered exhibits remain in custody as profiling and further investigations are being conducted.

Reacting to the successful operations, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the courage, professionalism, and dedication displayed by the operatives involved.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intensifying efforts against cultism, violent crimes, and other criminal activities across Delta State, assuring residents that law enforcement agencies will continue to take decisive action against individuals and groups threatening public peace and security.

The police also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing efforts aimed at maintaining law and order throughout the state.