On July 18, 2024, a coordinated intelligence-led operation by the Delta State Police resulted in the arrest of five suspected armed robbers and cultists, and the recovery of various firearms and ammunition. The operation was in response to a series of cult-related activities, kidnappings, and armed robberies in Sapele, Oghara, and surrounding areas.

Following directives from Commissioner of Police Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, the team led by ASP Julius Robinson, in collaboration with the DPOs of Oghara and Sapele Division, executed a covert operation targeting three syndicates in Oghara Town, Ethiope East LGA. The operation, conducted at approximately 9:30 AM, led to the arrest of the following suspects:

Ochuko Joel Ofoye, 35, of Jeddo Community, Okpe LGA, Delta State, a member of the Juris Confraternity.

Michael Anwul, 29, of Alisimie Community, Agbor, Ika South LGA, Delta State, also a member of the Juris Confraternity and custodian of arms. He was found in possession of two AK-47 magazines and twenty-nine rounds of live ammunition.

Great Ojareri, 35, of Oghareki Community, Ethiope West LGA, Delta State, a member of the Eiye Confraternity and custodian of arms.

Innocent Esefeta, 31, of Efisere Community, Ughelli North LGA, Delta State, residing behind Ibori Road, Oghara, identified as the owner of the recovered Beretta pistol.

Ogaga Ebuke, 27, of Okpe Community, Orerokpe LGA, Delta State, residing on Western Delta Road, Oghara, a member of the Juris Confraternity. A locally made pistol with one live cartridge, concealed in a shoe, was recovered from his residence.

Recovered items include one Beretta pistol, two AK-47 magazines, one locally made cut-to-size gun, and twenty-nine rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.

The suspects are currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing. The Delta State Police Command encourages the public to report any security-related information or distress to their local DPO or via the following control room numbers.