The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of four suspected members of a gun-running syndicate following the recovery of a Beretta pistol at a motor park in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects, identified as Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, Clifford Boleyelefa, Amadi Princewill, and Amadi Felix Chibuike, were apprehended in separate operations carried out in Bayelsa and Imo States after intelligence-led investigations and what police described as a carefully coordinated probe.
The development was disclosed on Monday during a press briefing by the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, who stated that the case is linked to unlawful firearm possession traced to a recovery made on May 1, 2026, in Effurun.
Police said the investigation began after Emmanuel Chukwuemeka was arrested in Bayelsa State on May 4, 2026, alongside an associate whose phone was allegedly used in communicating details related to the illegal transaction.
During interrogation, Chukwuemeka allegedly admitted that he bought the firearm from Amadi Princewill for ₦290,000 before selling it to an unidentified individual known as Desmond, who is currently on the run.
According to investigators, Desmond allegedly resold and transported the weapon to Effurun, where it was later linked to the deceased, Oghenemine Ogidi, who was reportedly instructed to collect and deliver it to Sapele.
Following this confession, operatives tracked and arrested Amadi Princewill in Imo State on May 15, 2026. Police further stated that Princewill also admitted to purchasing the weapon from Amadi Chibuike for ₦200,000.
This revelation led to the arrest of Amadi Chibuike in Owerri on May 16, 2026. Authorities added that all suspects are allegedly members of the Black Axe confraternity, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, including the said Desmond.
The command confirmed that the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of ongoing investigations, noting that more arrests may follow as the probe expands.
In his statement, Emmanuel Chukwuemeka claimed he was not fully aware of how the firearm was ultimately used in the incident involving the deceased. He stated that he only knew Desmond as a frequent visitor in the area and denied having full knowledge of the operation.
He also confirmed membership of the Neo Black Movement, saying he joined on January 7, 2026, but insisted he had not been involved in any criminal activity since then.
“I earn a living through my personal business activities,” he was quoted as saying.
The police said investigations are still ongoing as officers intensify efforts to track down remaining members of the syndicate who are currently at large.
CP Yemi Oyeniyi reiterated the command’s commitment to dismantling illegal arms networks and reducing the circulation of prohibited firearms across Delta State.
