The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on violent crimes across the state, arresting suspected cultists and a gun runner in separate operations that led to the recovery of multiple firearms and ammunition.
According to a press statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the arrests were made following credible intelligence and swift tactical response by operatives from the Oleh Division and the Rapid Response Squad (RRS).
Cultists Arrested in Aviara, Guns Recovered
On October 25, 2025, police received a report from a resident of Aviara community, under Oleh Division, concerning a viral video showing suspected Eiye cult activity shared on a WhatsApp group called “Real Men.”
Acting on the intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Keme Osuluku, launched an investigation that led to the arrest of Donatus Odovo (29) on October 26.
Further investigation resulted in the arrest of Zachariah Okeh (36), identified as an alleged Eiye cult leader in Aviara.
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.
Both suspects are currently in police custody, while efforts continue to track down other members of the cult group.
Gun Runner Intercepted Along Asaba–Benin Expressway
In another operation, on October 27, 2025, around 1:45 p.m., operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) conducting a stop-and-search operation along the Asaba–Benin Expressway intercepted a Toyota RAV4 (EPE 189 GN) driven by Mordi Emmanuel (45) of Family Estate, Asaba.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered a fabricated Beretta pistol with breech number 5182207 and four live rounds concealed in an envelope.
Acting on directives from the RRS Commander, CSP Nosa Alex, operatives obtained a search warrant for the suspect’s residence, where they recovered:One pump-action shotgun (breech No. 20-R-3921),Four live cartridges
The suspect was taken into custody, and investigations are ongoing to determine the source and intended destination of the weapons.
CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, commended the professionalism of the officers involved and applauded the vigilance of residents whose information aided the arrests.
He reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping, and illegal possession of firearms, emphasizing a sustained commitment to intelligence-led policing and community partnership.
“The Command will continue to work closely with the public to ensure that Delta State remains unsafe for criminals. We urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly,” CP Abaniwonda stated.
The Command urged members of the public to stay security-conscious and provide timely, credible information to law enforcement agencies to help prevent crime and maintain peace across the state.
Read also: Delta Police Arrests 20-Year-Old Herbalist, Step Brother Over Ritual Killing
