Delta Police Arrest Six Suspected Cultists, Recover Four Firearms, Live Cartridges, Other Weapons
The Delta State Police Command has arrested six suspected cultists during intelligence-led operations carried out in Ika South and Aniocha North Local Government Areas of the state.
The operations, which targeted suspected cultists and individuals linked to kidnapping-related activities, resulted in the recovery of four firearms, six live cartridges, a battle axe, two cutlasses, mobile phones, illicit drugs and military camouflage items.
The command disclosed the development in a press release issued on Saturday, September 19, 2026, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe.
According to the statement, the operations were conducted by different police units following credible intelligence received by the command.
Two Suspected Cultists Arrested in Ika South
Operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit (SAKU), Sector III, Ubulu-Uku, arrested two suspected cultists during a covert operation in Alisheme Community, Ika South Local Government Area.
The operation was carried out on September 18, 2026, following intelligence concerning suspected cultism and kidnapping-related activities in the area.
The suspects were identified as Destiny Okafor, aged 18, and Sunday Bryan, aged 22.
The police stated that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly belonged to the NBM Confraternity.
During the operation, officers recovered one locally fabricated single-barrelled gun, one battle axe, two cutlasses, mobile phones and a laptop.
The two suspects have been taken into police custody while investigations continue into their alleged activities and possible connections with other individuals.
Four Suspected Cultists Arrested in Issele-Uku
In a separate operation, officers of the Issele-Uku Division arrested four suspected cultists and recovered three firearms and six live cartridges.
The operation took place on September 15, 2026, after the Divisional Police Officer received intelligence that suspected cultists were operating around Ogboli Quarter and other parts of Issele-Uku.
The Divisional Police Officer mobilised and led a combined team comprising police anti-cult personnel, vigilantes, hunters and Forest Security operatives.
The team conducted a cordon-and-search operation in the area, which led to the arrest of four suspects.
Items recovered during the operation included two locally made pistols, one pump-action gun and six live cartridges.
The police command stated that investigations are ongoing to establish the identities, activities and possible connections of the suspects.
Police Intercept Vehicle Carrying Suspected Illicit Drugs
The Delta State Police Command also reported the interception of a Toyota Sienna vehicle allegedly conveying suspected illicit drugs and military accoutrements.
The operation was conducted on September 18, 2026, by operatives of the Command Anti-Cult Unit (CACU), Asaba.
According to the police, the operatives received intelligence that a Sienna vehicle carrying suspected illicit drugs and military-related items was travelling from Onitsha towards Ondo State.
The officers mounted surveillance along the anticipated route and intercepted a green Toyota Sienna at approximately 4:50 a.m.
The vehicle, with registration number KP 527 AAA, was reportedly driven by Isaac Urji, aged 45, from Abia State.
A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of cartons of suspected Tramadol and other suspected illicit drugs.
The police also recovered military camouflage uniforms, boots and hats from the vehicle.
The driver was arrested, while investigations have commenced to determine the source and intended destination of the recovered items.
The command also stated that efforts are being made to identify other individuals who may be connected to the consignment.
Police Commissioner Reaffirms Commitment to Fighting Crime
The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Samuel E. Erale, psc, mnips, reiterated the command’s determination to sustain intelligence-led operations against kidnapping, cultism and the proliferation of illegal firearms across the state.
The commissioner urged residents to continue providing credible information to the police to assist ongoing efforts to prevent crime and apprehend suspected criminals.
He assured members of the public that information provided to the police would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
The command’s latest operations form part of its efforts to disrupt criminal activities and recover illegal weapons within communities across Delta State.
Police Investigations Continue
The suspects arrested during the different operations remain in custody as investigations continue.
The police are expected to investigate the allegations against the suspects, trace possible criminal networks and establish the circumstances surrounding the recovered weapons and suspected illicit substances.
The command has not indicated that the suspects have been convicted of any offence. They remain suspects while the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings take their course.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or appropriate security agency.
The Delta State Police Command said it would continue to work with members of the public and other security stakeholders to address cultism, kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state.
The latest arrests and recoveries highlight the command’s ongoing security operations in Ika South, Aniocha North and other parts of Delta State.
