By Reen Chidi
The Delta State Police Command has recorded fresh operational gains in its ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping, armed robbery and cult-related activities across the state, recovering an AK-47 rifle, two pump-action guns and 55 rounds of live ammunition in separate intelligence-led operations.
The operations also resulted in the recovery of seven live cartridges and the arrest of three suspected members of the Black Axe confraternity.
Police Recover Weapons From Suspected Kidnappers, Armed Robbers
Operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) on October 4, 2026, reportedly raided a suspected hideout of kidnappers and armed robbers in a bush around Uduere Community, Ughelli North Local Government Area.
The operation, which took place at about 9:00 p.m., followed intelligence received by the team concerning the activities of suspected criminals operating in the area.
According to the police, the suspects opened fire after sighting the operatives, resulting in an exchange of gunfire.
The suspects reportedly fled the scene after they were unable to withstand the operatives, prompting the police to conduct a search of the hideout.
The search led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, two AK-47 magazines, 55 rounds of live ammunition, one pump-action gun and seven live cartridges.
Other items recovered included a knife, a cutlass and a mobile phone.
The command said a manhunt had been launched for the fleeing suspects.
Three Suspected Black Axe Members Arrested In Kokori
In a separate operation, operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS) arrested three suspected members of the Black Axe confraternity during an alleged cult meeting in Kokori, Ethiope East Local Government Area.
The operation was carried out at about 12:45 a.m. on October 5, following intelligence concerning suspected cult activities along Ekrakra Road, Kokori.
Police said the suspected cultists fled in different directions when the operatives arrived, but three suspects were apprehended.
They were identified as Uzubu Ufuoma, 33; Solomon Ovie, 27; and Remember Emuere, 31.
During the ensuing investigation, the suspects allegedly led police operatives to an abandoned building at Okodjerhe Village, Kokori, where an automatic pump-action gun was recovered.
The three suspects remain in police custody, while the command said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the group who escaped during the operation.
CP Warns Criminal Elements
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel E. Erale, warned kidnappers, armed robbers and cultists that the command would continue to identify and disrupt criminal hideouts across the state.
Erale said the police would sustain intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and bringing perpetrators to justice.
He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly provide the police with credible information about suspicious persons and activities in their communities.
