Police in Delta arrest cultists, foil armed robbery, recover weapons

Crime Diary

ASABA, NIGERIA (NPA), March 3, 2026 — The Delta State Police Command has announced the successful disruption of cult activities and armed robbery operations in Warri, Ughelli, and Sapele during a series of coordinated security operations.

In a statement issued on March 2, 2026, Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe confirmed that three suspects were arrested, with three firearms and 27 live cartridges recovered.

According to the release, on February 27, 2026, at about 11:35 p.m., operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team, led by ASP Julius Robinson, stormed the Ekredjebor area of Ughelli and arrested one Oghenemaro Festus of Upper Agbarho. A pump-action gun loaded with two live cartridges was recovered. Police say Festus is linked to a series of house-to-house robberies, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.

In another operation, officers responding to reports of armed robberies in Sapele arrested Prince Omanure, also known as “Anini,” aged 21, of the Ghana Area. During interrogation, the suspect led police to a bush along the Warri–Sapele Road near the Trailer Park, where a fabricated Beretta pistol loaded with eight rounds of live ammunition was recovered. Investigators say Omanure has provided useful intelligence, and the Command is pursuing other members of the syndicate.

A third sting operation in Warri targeted a suspected cult gathering at a building on Okwagbe Street, Igbudu. Several suspects fled upon sighting police, but three were arrested: Nelson Mudiagha (alias Diara), Efe Nyore, and Ebube Ifeanyi.

Commissioner of Police CP Aina Adesola assured residents that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property. He reiterated that the Delta State Police will continue to dismantle cult groups, armed robbery syndicates, and violent criminal networks across the state.