Rita Enemuru, Reporting
ASABA — Police operatives in Delta State have arrested two suspected cultists following a late-night raid on a criminal hideout in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the scourge of cult-related violence across the state.
The operation, conducted by the Command Anti-Cultism Unit (CACU) at approximately 11:45pm on 19th June 2026, was carried out on the back of credible intelligence, according to police sources.
Those apprehended have been identified as Okonkwo Prosper, 26, from Aniofu in Aniocha North Local Government Area, and Tuesday Emmanuel, 25, of the same address. During a search of the premises, officers recovered a substantial arsenal including one English pump-action gun loaded with five live cartridges, a cutlass, assorted charms, and substances believed to be illicit drugs.
Preliminary investigations have established that the suspects are allegedly members of a cult group believed to be behind a series of violent clashes that have plagued Ibusa and neighbouring communities in recent weeks. Both individuals remain in police custody, with authorities confirming that efforts are underway to track down other members of the criminal gang who managed to evade capture.
Commenting on the development, the Commissioner of Police for Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to tackling cultism and other violent crimes across the state.
In a strongly-worded warning, the Commissioner cautioned those involved in cult-related activities to renounce their membership or face the full consequences of the law. He also appealed to residents to continue supporting police efforts by providing timely and reliable information that could assist in crime-fighting operations.
The operation represents the latest success in the Delta State Police Command’s Operation Zero Tolerance campaign, which has intensified in recent months following a spike in cult-related incidents.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrests in a statement released from the Command’s headquarters in Asaba today, 21st June 2026.
