The Delta State Police Command has recorded major operational breakthroughs in its fight against violent crimes, following the arrest of eight suspects linked to armed robbery, gunrunning and cult-related activities, with the recovery of four locally made firearms, four live cartridges and other exhibits.

The Command disclosed that the arrests were carried out during separate intelligence-led operations across the state between 10th and 14th July, 2026.

In the first operation on 14th July, 2026, at about 5:00 a.m., police operatives, working with members of the Civilian Anti-Cult group, intercepted two suspected armed robbers, Stephen Danladi, 29, from Langtang Local Government Area of Plateau State, and Jude Christian, 26, from Mbaitoli LGA of Imo State, along the Asaba–Benin Expressway.

The suspects were arrested following credible intelligence on the activities of a suspected robbery gang, with two locally made pistols recovered during a search.

Further investigation led operatives to Issele-Asagba, Ogwashi-Uku, where Jerry Egenus of Atuma-Iga, Oshimili North LGA, Delta State, was arrested for allegedly operating as a gunrunner and receiver of stolen property.

Police said preliminary investigations linked the suspects to a gang allegedly involved in a series of armed robbery incidents in Okpanam, Asaba and surrounding areas, including the theft of mobile phones, motorcycles and other valuables.

In another operation on 12th July, 2026, at about 4:30 p.m., operatives of Oghara Division arrested four suspected cultists during a surveillance patrol after intercepting a silver Lexus RX330 SUV with registration number GRA-168AM.

A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of one locally made cut-to-size firearm concealed on the driver and one live cartridge. The four occupants were arrested and are currently assisting with investigations.

Similarly, on 10th July, 2026, at about 2:00 p.m., operatives of Ogwashi-Uku Division arrested a 24-year-old suspected member of the Eiye Confraternity following a distress call around the Polytechnic area.

Recovered from the suspect were one locally made pistol, three live cartridges, one expended cartridge and one dagger knife.

The Delta State Police Command said all suspects and recovered exhibits are in custody, while investigations are ongoing to uncover more details and prosecute those found culpable.

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, curbing cultism and reducing the proliferation of illegal firearms in the state.

He urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, assuring that the Command will remain relentless in its efforts to protect lives and property across Delta State.