OPERATIVES of the Delta State Police Command have arrested suspected cultists and armed robbers in a series of coordinated operations, recovering locally fabricated firearms, ammunition and dangerous weapons.
In a statement released in Asaba on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the arrests were made by the CP Special Assignment Team and Safe Delta operatives acting on intelligence and routine patrols.
On 10 September, the CP Special Assignment Team apprehended 29-year-old Oluwatobi Olugbemi at Ogboli Quarters, Ibusa, following reports of cult-related activities in the area.
A Beretta pistol loaded with ammunition was recovered during a search of his residence.
“The suspect confessed to being a member of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity, also known as Arrow Barger,” Bright disclosed, noting that investigations were ongoing.
Safe Delta operatives also made significant breakthroughs in two separate incidents. On 9 September, a patrol team on DBS Road intervened in a violent street fight and arrested Raphael Chukwuemeka, 23, who was found with a cut-to-size double-barrel pistol and seven live cartridges.
The following day, at Head Bridge in Asaba, three young men — Solomon Offor (22), Ifesinachi Nwankeze (19) and Ambrose Ugwuba (23) — were intercepted during a stop-and-search exercise.
Police recovered a cut-to-size locally made single-barrel gun, cartridges and a dagger concealed in a bag.
All suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended the officers for their vigilance and reiterated his resolve to rid Delta State of violent crime.
“We will not relent in our duty to protect lives and property. Criminals will find no safe haven in this state,” he said.
