From ONYECHUKWU MELUWA
Delta State Police Command has intensified its clampdown on violent crimes with the arrest of suspected cultists and a gunrunner in separate operations that led to the recovery of four firearms and live ammunition.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, who confirmed the arrest in a statement issued in Asaba, said the operations were executed through credible intelligence and sustained vigilance by police operatives.
According to the statement, operatives from Oleh Division on October 25 acted on a report from a resident of Aviara community who shared a video of suspected Eiye cult activity posted on a WhatsApp group called “Real Men.”
Following the tip-off, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Keme Osuluku, deployed his team for discreet investigation, leading to the arrest of Donatus Odovo (29) of Aviara community and Zachariah Okeh (36), alleged to be the Eiye cult leader in the area.
A search conducted at Okeh’s residence led to the recovery of one locally made double-barrel gun, one locally made single-barrel gun and six live cartridges, which were secured as exhibits.
In another operation, the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, during a stop-and-search along Asaba–Benin Expressway on October 27, intercepted a Toyota RAV4 with registration number EPE 189 GN driven by Mordi Emmanuel (45) of Family Estate, Asaba.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered one fabricated Beretta pistol (Breech No. 5182207) with four live rounds hidden in an envelope.
Acting on the directive of the RRS Commander, CSP Nosa Alex, a search was conducted at the suspect’s residence where the team recovered one pump-action shotgun (Breech No. 20-R-3921) and four live cartridges.
Edafe said the suspects and recovered exhibits are currently in police custody, as investigations continue.
The Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi, commended the officers for their professionalism and dedication to duty, adding that the command would not relent in its fight against crime.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and community partnership, warning criminal elements that Delta State would not serve as a safe haven.
The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or persons to the nearest police station.
“We appreciate the cooperation of members of the public and urge them to continue sharing timely and credible information with the police to sustain peace and safety across the state,” CP Olufemi said.
