Delta security operatives arrest gun-running couple, cultists (+PHOTOS)

SECURITY operatives in Delta State have made significant arrests in a series of targeted operations against gun runners and suspected cultists, recovering firearms and ammunition in the process.

In a sting operation carried out on 9 March at around 2:30 pm, operatives of the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) apprehended a couple, Mr and Mrs Joshua Bogbon Godwell, at their residence in Okpe Local Government Area. A fabricated Beretta pistol with a live round of ammunition, intended for delivery to a client in Sapele, was recovered.

Mrs Uche Joshua admitted to serving as the arms dispatcher, confessing to multiple deliveries under her husband’s instructions to clients in Warri and Sapele.

Further investigation led to the arrest of Junior Moses Ogedegbe, a 30-year-old resident of Useifurun community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, who is also suspected of involvement in the illegal trade.

Authorities confirmed that efforts are ongoing to track down other accomplices and recover more firearms.

Suspected Cultists Arrested, Firearms Recovered

In a separate operation on 2 March at around 1:45 pm, CP-SAT operatives arrested Stephen Oma Odu, a suspected cultist and gunrunner on the police command’s wanted list. Odu, 25, was apprehended in Sapele town.

Following his confession, the team proceeded to Oghara town, where they arrested Abel Festus, 42, also known as “Tompolo,” at his residence.

A search of his apartment led to the recovery of two pump-action guns and 24 rounds of live cartridges.

Two additional suspects, identified as Godspower Moses (alias “Power”) from Kokori community and 24-year-old Oloriode Owebe from Oghareki community, were also taken into custody.

Preliminary investigations suggest that all four are members of the Vikings Confraternity. Further inquiries are ongoing.

Notorious Cultist and Suspected Kidnappers Nabbed

In a bid to combat the rising cases of cultism and kidnapping in Mosogar and surrounding areas, CP-SAT operatives launched another operation on 9 March at approximately 6:30 am, targeting criminal elements in Jesse and Mosogar towns.

During the raid, 26-year-old Festus Oboyo from Igbopa community in Ethiope West Local Government Area was arrested.

A locally made cut-to-size gun with a single cartridge was recovered from him.

Investigators also discovered a fraudulent “FBI” document bearing his image, which he allegedly used for online scams.

Further arrests included 29-year-old Favor Omowo, also known as “Voltage,” and 26-year-old Gift Omowo, both from Jesse community.

Authorities are actively pursuing other members of their gang while the investigation continues.

The Delta State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling crime and urged residents to provide any useful information that could assist security efforts.