The Delta State Police Command has recorded another breakthrough in its fight against crime with the arrest of two suspected members of a notorious armed robbery syndicate that specialised in attacking churches and carting away instruments and valuables.
The suspects, identified as Emmanuel Emiowor (21) and Noah Philip (20), both of PTI Road, Warri, were intercepted on September 16, 2025, by operatives of the Ogwashi-Uku Division, led by Divisional Police Officer CSP Israel Okomoyon, following a distress call about an imminent attack on Dominican City Church, along Polytechnic Road near Sticals Hotel.
The police, working in synergy with local vigilantes, stopped a gold-coloured Toyota Sienna van with registration number EFR-150-XB, occupied by the duo. A search of the vehicle uncovered a cache of arms, including one pump-action gun, three single-barrel locally made guns, a locally fabricated revolver, one live cartridge, and an iron rod allegedly used for breaking into church doors.
According to police sources, the suspects confessed to belonging to a gang notorious for raiding churches at night. Some stolen items from previous operations have already been recovered, while further investigations are underway.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended the swift response of the officers and reiterated the Command’s resolve to flush out criminal elements from Delta State. He assured residents that the State would never be allowed to become a haven for crime and called on citizens to continue supporting security agencies with credible information.
He also urged the public to make use of the Command’s emergency line 08036684974 or report suspicious activities at the nearest police station.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed that the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
