Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have recorded major breakthroughs in separate intelligence-led operations, intercepting a consignment of hard drugs and recovering a firearm linked to a murder and cultism investigation.

The command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, confirmed the developments yesterday, highlighting ongoing efforts to tackle crime across the state.

He said the first operation took place on April 13, 2026, at about 8:45 a.m., when operatives of the Safer Highway Patrol along the Onicha-Ugbo/Ewohimi Road intercepted a Toyota Sienna bus conveying passengers to the northern part of the country. The vehicle, driven by Osuke Stephen, 47, was searched following intelligence reports.

During the search, officers discovered illicit substances concealed in electric bulbs. Recovered exhibits included about 490 grams of a substance suspected to be cocaine and four grams of “loud”, a potent strain of cannabis. Preliminary findings indicate the drugs were being transported to Abuja. Edafe said efforts are ongoing to arrest other individuals linked to the trafficking operation.

In a related development on the same day, further investigation into a case of conspiracy, cultism and murder led to another breakthrough. At about 8:45 p.m., operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team, acting on credible intelligence, recovered a pump-action gun with three live cartridges abandoned in the Ekigbo area of Ughelli.

He said the recovery is connected to the murder of Alex Adanike on January 15, 2026, in Ughelli. Three suspects earlier arrested in connection with the case have been charged in court and remanded in custody.

Further intelligence identified a suspect, Eddy Onose, who remains at large, as having been in possession of the weapon before abandoning it after detecting police surveillance. Investigators also linked him to the Supreme Vikings Confraternity, also known as “Aro Bagger”.

Edafe said a manhunt has been intensified for the suspect, with operatives working alongside local vigilante groups to apprehend him and recover additional evidence. He reiterated the command’s commitment to public safety and warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities or face the full weight of the law.