Amid growing concerns over cult-related killings and violent crimes across Delta State, the police have intensified operations against suspected cult groups, leading to the arrest of 32 suspects and the recovery of firearms, ammunition, illicit drugs and communication equipment.
The latest crackdown, carried out by operatives of the Delta State Police Command, targeted suspected cult members in Ughelli North and Aniocha South local government areas following intelligence reports linking some of the suspects to violent activities in the state.
Commissioner of Police, , said the command remains committed to dismantling cult networks and restoring public confidence in communities affected by cult-related violence.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, operatives of the Command Anti-Cult Unit first raided a suspected criminal hideout in Azagba-Ogwashi, where seven suspected cultists were arrested.
The suspects were identified as Obore Ndubrisi, Okafor Okene, Odinigie Sunday, Okohur Destiny, Felix Abraham, Aputa Israel and Okolie Chinonso Peter.
Police said items recovered from the suspects included a double-barrel gun, two live cartridges, a walkie-talkie, and substances suspected to be Indian hemp and tramadol.
In a separate operation, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit stormed a suspected cult initiation ground in Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area, after receiving intelligence that members of the Eiye confraternity were planning fresh attacks and initiation activities.
The police said the suspects allegedly had links to recent cult-related killings in Agbor and were mobilising for further violent operations.
Edafe said the operatives came under gunfire upon arrival at the location, forcing them to return fire.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 25 suspects, while two of them sustained gunshot injuries and were taken for medical treatment.
A pump-action shotgun and a cut-to-size firearm were also recovered during the raid.
The police spokesman said several other suspects escaped and are currently being tracked by security operatives.
He added that all the arrested suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend fleeing members of the groups.
Residents in some affected communities have repeatedly expressed concern over recurring cult clashes and killings, calling for sustained security operations to prevent further violence and protect lives and property.