Arrest of Suspected Cultists, Recovery of Guns Heighten Security Push in Nigeria

Arrest of Suspected Cultists, Recovery of Guns Heighten Security Push in Nigeria

18th November 2025

In a fresh clampdown on cult activities and illegal arms, the Delta State Police Command has arrested two suspected members of the Eiye Confraternity and recovered locally made weapons in separate operations across the state.

The Command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the development in a statement released Tuesday in Warri. He explained that officers swung into action on November 8, 2025, at about 5:35 p.m., after receiving credible intelligence that suspected cultists were gathering at Ojeifo Street by Iduwe in Agbor.

Acting swiftly on the tip-off, the Divisional Police Officer of Agbor Division, CSP Michael Obekpa, led a combined team of patrol operatives and the Civilian Anti-Cult Unit to the hotspot. Their rapid deployment paid off as they apprehended two alleged cult members — Agu Nnamdi of Ohumere Quarters, Agbor, and Promise Banco of Iduwe by Ojeifo Street, Agbor-Obi.

According to the statement, the suspects attempted to conceal a locally fabricated pistol inside a black nylon bag, but officers uncovered the weapon during the operation. Both men are now in custody, with efforts ongoing to track other members who fled the scene.

In a separate incident on Sunday around 9:30 a.m., operatives of ‘B’ Division, Warri, led by CSP Josephine Ekebuike, intercepted a tricycle suspected to be used for criminal activities. The tricyclist, carrying two passengers, reportedly rode aggressively against traffic, prompting officers to give chase.

The pursuit led into First Marine Quarters, where the occupants abandoned the tricycle and escaped through narrow streets. A search of the tricycle revealed two locally made double-barrel guns, nine mobile phones, four power banks, and a screwdriver — items believed to be linked to criminal operations.

The area has since been cordoned off, with intensified stop-and-search operations underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Reacting to the coordinated breakthroughs, Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to rooting out criminal networks and curbing the spread of illicit arms across Delta State. He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information, assuring that such reports would be handled confidentially.

He emphasized the Command’s resolve to maintain a secure environment where citizens can go about their daily activities without fear.