The suspects, identified as Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, Clifford Boleyelefa, Amadi Princewill and Amadi Felix Chibuike, were arrested in separate operations carried out in Bayelsa and Imo states after intelligence gathering and extensive investigations by police operatives.
The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday.
Police said the arrests stemmed from investigations into a firearm recovered on May 1, 2026, at a park in Effurun.
According to the command, the investigation gained momentum on May 4, 2026, when Emmanuel Chukwuemeka was arrested in Bayelsa State alongside a friend whose mobile phone was allegedly used during communications relating to the transaction.
During questioning, Emmanuel reportedly told investigators that he purchased the pistol from Amadi Princewill for ₦290,000 before selling it to a man identified only as Desmond, who remains at large.
Police said Emmanuel further disclosed that Desmond later resold and transported the weapon to Effurun, where it eventually became linked to the late Oghenemine Ogidi, who had allegedly been instructed to collect and deliver it to Sapele.
Acting on the information obtained, detectives tracked down and arrested Amadi Princewill in Imo State on May 15, 2026.
Investigators said Princewill also made a statement during interrogation, claiming he had obtained the firearm from Amadi Chibuike for ₦200,000.
His confession subsequently led to the arrest of Amadi Chibuike in Owerri on May 16, 2026.
The police further alleged that the suspects are members of the Black Axe confraternity and noted that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, including Desmond.
According to the command, the suspects will be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.
Meanwhile, Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, while giving his account of events, maintained that he was not fully aware of the circumstances surrounding the incident involving the deceased.
He stated that he only knew Desmond as a regular visitor within their neighbourhood and insisted he had no complete knowledge of how events unfolded.
He also acknowledged being a member of the Neo Black Movement, saying he joined the organisation on January 7, 2026, while denying involvement in criminal activities since becoming a member.
“I earn a living through my personal business activities,” he was quoted as saying.
The police said investigations remain ongoing as operatives continue efforts to track down other suspects linked to the network.
CP Oyeniyi reiterated the command’s determination to dismantle criminal groups involved in the illegal movement and distribution of firearms across Delta State.