Delta Police Arrest Suspected Cultists, Recover Gun and Stolen Lexus Jeep

The Delta State Police Command has apprehended suspected cultists in Sapele and recovered firearms, live ammunition, and a stolen Lexus 330 Jeep in coordinated raids on criminal hideouts.

Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), led by ASP Julius Robinson, launched an operation on June 29, 2025, targeting cultist enclaves along Yoruba Street in Sapele town. During the operation, 31-year-old Rasheed Atanda, a native of Irinle, Kwara State, was arrested.

Further investigations led to the arrest of three other suspects:

Charles Oyowe (36), of Obeda in Warri North LGA, who was found with a Beretta pistol and three rounds of live ammunition.

Rewane Ogbitse (49), from Jakpa in Warri South LGA.

Shedrack Oloko (44), of Ethiope East LGA.

According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, all four suspects confessed to being members of the Eiye Confraternity. They are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

In a related operation on June 30, 2025, CP-SAT operatives recovered a Lexus 330 Jeep that had been reported stolen in a case of armed robbery. The robbers, armed with dangerous weapons, had invaded a residence and carted away valuables including jewelry, mobile phones, and the vehicle (registration number: RBC 656 CN).

Following swift intelligence deployment, the stolen SUV was recovered around 6:35 a.m. along Uti Road, off DSC Expressway, Ebrumede. Police say efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining members of the armed gang.

Commending the operation, Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, stated:

“The success of these operations underscores the importance of timely and credible information from members of the public. Proactive community engagement and prompt reporting of criminal activities significantly enhance the police’s ability to respond and prevent crime.”