Police Arrest Nine Suspected Cultists in Delta, Recover Guns and Other Items

The Delta State Police Command has arrested nine suspected cultists in separate operations in Obiaruku and Issele-Ikpitime. Police said the operations led to the recovery of firearms, suspected illicit drugs and other items, while investigations are continuing to determine the suspects’ individual roles.

Seven of the suspects were arrested on September 13 after operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Ubulu-Uku, executed a search warrant at premises along Ghana Quarters Street, Umuebu Road, Obiaruku. Police said the search resulted in the recovery of a locally fabricated firearm, a live cartridge, suspected illicit drugs, a battle axe, mobile phones and a laptop computer.

The seven suspects were identified as Wisdom Enede, 25; Ocheli Solomon, 42; Nnaji Godstime, 23; Izu Thankgod, 28; Kester Adishi, 31; Oghonogho Pentecost, 28; and Adishi Prince, 28. According to police, preliminary questioning indicated that the suspects allegedly claimed membership of the Vikings and Black Axe confraternities and made statements concerning alleged involvement in internet fraud. Police stressed that investigations were still ongoing.

In a separate operation on September 12, officers from the Onicha-Olona Division responded to a reported cult-related attack in Issele-Ikpitime. The operation resulted in the arrest of Emmanuel Believe, 29, and Israel Nwaobi, 27, while police also recovered another locally made firearm. A man who had reportedly been injured during the attack was rescued and taken to hospital for treatment.

The Delta State Police Command said it is continuing efforts to identify other people allegedly connected with the incidents and establish the source of the recovered firearms. Commissioner of Police Samuel Erale directed investigators to determine the suspects’ individual roles and any possible links to other criminal activities. The suspects remain allegations at this stage and are subject to due legal process.