The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on violent crime, recording major breakthroughs with the arrest of suspected cultists and gun runners in coordinated operations across the state.
The raids, executed through credible intelligence and swift police response, led to the recovery of multiple firearms, live cartridges, and ammunition a clear warning to criminal networks that Delta is no haven for lawlessness.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the twin operations were carried out under the directives of the Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, who reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and community safety.
In the first operation, on October 25, 2025, officers from the Oleh Division arrested Donatus Odovo (29) and Zachariah Okeh (36), both of Aviara community, over suspected involvement in Eiye cult activities. Acting on intelligence gathered from a viral WhatsApp video, the police, led by DPO CSP Keme Osuluku, executed a search warrant that uncovered one locally made double-barrel gun, one single-barrel gun, and six live cartridges from the suspects’ possession. The duo are currently in custody, with investigations underway to trace their accomplices.
In a separate development, on October 27, 2025, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), during a routine stop-and-search along the Asaba–Benin Expressway, intercepted a Toyota RAV4 driven by Mordi Emmanuel (45). Upon inspection, officers discovered a fabricated Beretta pistol with four live rounds concealed in an envelope inside the vehicle. A subsequent search of the suspect’s residence, authorized by warrant and supervised by RRS Commander CSP Nosa Alex, led to the recovery of one pump-action shotgun and four live cartridges.
Commending the swift actions of his officers, CP Abaniwonda praised the vigilance of residents who provided timely information and reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping, and illegal arms possession. He called on the public to remain alert and continue to collaborate with the police by reporting suspicious activities promptly.
The Delta Police Command continues to demonstrate its resolve to make the state safer through strategic intelligence operations and community-driven policing.