The Delta State Police Command has recorded yet another breakthrough in its sustained fight against crime, following the arrest of two suspected members of a notorious armed robbery gang that specialised in attacking churches across the State.
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives from the Ogwashi-Uku Division, led by Divisional Police Officer (DPO) CSP Israel Okomoyon, in collaboration with local vigilantes, intercepted a gold-coloured Toyota Sienna van during a late-night operation on September 16.
The swift response came after a distress call alerted the Command to an imminent attack on Dominican City Church, Polytechnic Road, Ogwashi-Uku.
The suspects, identified as 21-year-old Emmanuel Emiowor and 20-year-old Noah Philip, both of PTI Road, Warri, were apprehended at the scene.
A search of the vehicle yielded a cache of dangerous weapons including one pump-action rifle, three single-barrel locally-made guns, one locally-fabricated revolver, one live cartridge, and an iron rod reportedly used in breaking into church doors.
During interrogation, the duo confessed to being part of a wider syndicate notorious for raiding churches and carting away instruments and valuables.
The Police confirmed that some stolen items have already been recovered, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
Reaffirming the Command’s resolve, Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, declared that Delta State will never be allowed to serve as a safe haven for criminals.
He lauded the swift coordination between the Police and local security stakeholders, while urging residents to remain vigilant and continue partnering with law enforcement.
“Our message is clear – crime has no place in Delta State. We will remain relentless in pursuing offenders, dismantling criminal networks, and ensuring the safety of our communities,” CP Abaniwonda stated.
He further encouraged citizens to promptly report suspicious activities via the Command’s emergency line (08036684974) or the nearest police station to ensure timely intervention.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, while confirming the arrests, assured that the Command will keep the public updated as investigations progress.
