Delta Police Arrest 95 Suspected Cultists, Recover Five Firearms, 19 Cartridges

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Delta State Police Command has arrested 95 suspected cultists and recovered five firearms and 19 cartridges in coordinated intelligence-led operations carried out across four Local Government Areas of the state.

The operations, conducted on October 15, 2026, followed the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel E. Erale, psc, mnips, to intensify the crackdown on cultism and other violent crimes across Delta State.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, operatives of the Department of Operations, Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and Command Anti-Cultism Unit (CACU) conducted the operations in Asaba, Ika South, Ughelli South and Okpe. The arrests resulted in the recovery of two pump-action guns, one locally fabricated cut-to-size gun, two locally made pistols, 12 live cartridges and seven expended cartridges.

The largest operation took place at a hotel along Abraka Road, Asaba, following intelligence that suspected members of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity (SVC), also known as Aro Bagger, had gathered for an alleged cult anniversary celebration. Police arrested 67 suspects—55 males and 12 females—and recovered firearms, ammunition, suspected cult insignia, jackets and other items. In Agbor, Ika South, another 15 suspects were arrested in a related operation.

Similarly, three suspected cultists were arrested at Jeremy Community in Ughelli South, while two locally made pistols, ammunition, suspected cult insignia and charms were recovered. Ten additional male suspects were also arrested at Jeddo Community in Okpe Local Government Area over suspected cult-related activities.

The Commissioner of Police commended the operatives for their efforts and directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and tactical commanders to sustain intensified operations against cult groups throughout the state.

CP Erale warned that the Command would not tolerate activities capable of threatening public peace and security, while urging residents to continue providing the Police with credible information to assist in the fight against cultism and other criminal activities.