The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on violent crime, arresting suspected cultists and a gunrunner in two separate operations that led to the recovery of multiple firearms and ammunition across the state.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the operations were carried out based on credible intelligence, underscoring the Command’s resolve to rid Delta State of cultism, armed robbery, and illegal arms trafficking.
Arrest of Suspected Cultists and Recovery of Firearms
On October 25, 2025, at about 6:00 p.m., a resident of Aviara community under Oleh Division reported that a video showing suspected Eiye cult activity had been shared in a WhatsApp group called “Real Men.” Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Keme Osuluku, launched a discreet investigation that led to the arrest of one Donatus Odovo (29) of Aviara community.
Further investigation resulted in the arrest of Zachariah Okeh (36), alleged to be a leader of the Eiye confraternity in Aviara. During a search of Okeh’s residence, police recovered one locally made double-barrel gun, one single-barrel gun, and six live cartridges. Both suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue to track down other accomplices.
Arrest of Gunrunner and Recovery of Arms
In a related development, on October 27, 2025, at about 1:45 p.m., operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, while conducting stop-and-search along the Asaba–Benin Expressway, intercepted a Toyota RAV4 with registration number EPE 189 GN, driven by Mordi Emmanuel (45) of Asaba.
During a routine search, the officers discovered an envelope containing one fabricated Beretta pistol (breech No. 5182207) and four live rounds. Acting on the directive of the RRS Commander, CSP Nosa Alex, a follow-up search was conducted at the suspect’s residence, where one pump-action shotgun (breech No. 20-R-3921)** and **four live cartridges were recovered. The suspect and the exhibits are now in police custody for further investigation.
CP Abaniwonda Commends Officers’ Professionalism
The Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, commended the professionalism of the officers involved and the vigilance of residents who provided actionable intelligence. He reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping, and illegal possession of firearms, emphasizing a commitment to intelligence-led policing and community collaboration.
The CP further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely, credible information to the police to help sustain the state’s safety.
