The Delta State Police Command has arrested twelve suspected cult members in separate intelligence-led operations across the state, recovering firearms, ammunition and other incriminating items as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal gangs and curb cult-related violence.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the development in a statement, saying operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) carried out the coordinated operations on July 17, 2026.

According to the statement, the first operation took place at about 2:00 a.m. in Amukpe, Sapele Local Government Area, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected cult members in the area.

During the raid, police operatives arrested eight suspects identified as Lucky Naset, 30; Ochuko Midwest, 27; Samuel Oghene, 29; Michael Mmadu, 35; Dennis Philip, 28; Goodluck Onujenya, 30; Ovie Royal, 25; and Divine Otemu, 22.

Police investigations revealed that the suspects are believed to be members of the notorious Aiye Confraternity, a cult group linked to violent crimes and disturbances in parts of the state.

A thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of three locally fabricated pistols, six live cartridges, eight rounds of live ammunition of different calibres, two axes, two suspected cannabis grinders, a bottle containing a suspected illicit substance, and other exhibits considered incriminating.

SP Edafe said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects are connected to cult-related activities within the Sapele axis, adding that efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate and recover additional weapons.

In a separate operation conducted later the same day at about 11:30 a.m., police operatives arrested four additional suspects in connection with the alleged attack on a resident of Illabor Community in Ika North East Local Government Area.

The suspects were identified as Ifeanyi Emeka, 25; Hope Sunday, 24; Francis Onyechiwalla, 23; and Chinedu Joseph, 25.

Investigators disclosed that the suspects allegedly attacked the victim, whose identity was withheld, using a cut-to-size gun.

During preliminary interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed to being members of the Eiye Confraternity, another notorious cult group known for violent clashes and criminal activities in parts of the country.

The suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue to ascertain their involvement in other cult-related crimes and to identify and apprehend additional members of the group.

Reacting to the successful operations, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the operatives for their professionalism and dedication.

The police commissioner reaffirmed the command’s determination to intensify intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal gangs, cult networks and other violent groups operating within the state.

He also appealed to residents to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist in preventing crimes and tracking down criminal elements.

CP Oyeniyi assured the public that the Delta State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property and sustaining efforts to rid the state of cultism and other violent crimes.