The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on violent crime with the arrest of suspected cultists and a gunrunner in separate intelligence-driven operations across the state.
The coordinated efforts led to the recovery of multiple locally made firearms, a fabricated pistol, a pump-action shotgun, and several rounds of live ammunition.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday, October 29, 2025, by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the operations underscore the Command’s renewed resolve to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure public safety.
Arrest of Suspected Cultists
On October 25, 2025, at about 6:00 p.m., a resident of Aviara community under Oleh Division reported a viral video posted on a WhatsApp group known as “Real Men” showing alleged activities of suspected Eiye cult members. Acting on the report, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Keme Osuluku, ordered a discreet investigation that led to the arrest of one Donatus Odovo, 29, of Aviara community.
Further investigation resulted in the arrest of a suspected Eiye cult leader, Zachariah Okeh, 36.
During a search at his residence, police operatives recovered one locally made double-barrel gun, one locally made single-barrel gun, and six live cartridges.
Both suspects are currently in custody as the investigation continues to track down other accomplices.
Arrest of Gunrunner
In a separate operation, on October 27, 2025, at about 1:45 p.m., operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), while conducting a stop-and-search along the Asaba–Benin Expressway, intercepted a Toyota RAV4 with registration number EPE 189 GN.
A search of the vehicle, driven by one Mordi Emmanuel, 45, of Family Estate, Asaba, led to the discovery of a fabricated Beretta pistol with breech number 5182207 and four live rounds hidden inside an envelope.
Acting swiftly, a follow-up search at the suspect’s residence yielded one pump-action shotgun with breech number 20-R-3921 and four live cartridges.
CP Reiterates Zero Tolerance for Crime
The Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, commended the professionalism of the officers and the vigilance of residents who provided timely intelligence.
He reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping, and illegal possession of firearms, stressing that Delta State would remain unsafe for criminals.
He further urged members of the public to remain security-conscious and to continue providing credible information to the police for prompt action.
“We remain committed to intelligence-led policing, strong community partnership, and the strict enforcement of the law,” CP Olufemi stated.
