(DDM) – The Delta State Police Command has arrested two young men believed to be part of a criminal gang notorious for breaking into churches and carting away valuables across the state.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the suspects, identified as Emmanuel Emiowor, 21, and Noah Philip, 20, were apprehended near Dominican City Church, Ogwashi-Uku, during a late-night operation on September 16, 2025.
Police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, intercepted a gold-coloured Toyota Sienna which the suspects allegedly used to transport stolen goods and weapons.
During the search, officers recovered a pump-action rifle, locally fabricated firearms, live cartridges, burglary tools, and several items suspected to have been stolen from churches.
According to police sources, the arrested suspects confessed to belonging to a wider network of burglars targeting churches for musical instruments, electronics, and other valuables.
The gang was said to have carried out coordinated attacks at night, breaking into worship centres in different parts of Delta State.
Commissioner of Police Olufemi Abaniwonda confirmed the arrests, stressing that the Command is determined to clamp down on criminals exploiting places of worship.
Abaniwonda described the operation as a major breakthrough in dismantling syndicates that prey on vulnerable institutions such as churches, which serve as spiritual sanctuaries for communities.
He directed Divisional Police Officers across the state to sustain intelligence-driven patrols, particularly around religious centres, ahead of weekend services.
The CP also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, warning that churches must no longer be soft targets for criminal gangs.
DDM learned that police have intensified efforts to track other members of the gang reportedly on the run, with raids planned across known criminal hideouts in Warri, Ogwashi-Uku, and surrounding communities.
Community leaders in Ogwashi-Uku praised the police for swiftly responding to security alerts, noting that recent reports of church break-ins had heightened fears among residents.
Security analysts point out that the growing trend of targeting churches in Delta State reflects both economic desperation and rising youth involvement in organised crime.
For many churches, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, security has remained a major challenge as thieves often take advantage of poorly guarded premises at night.
Some pastors have already begun hiring private security guards or installing surveillance cameras to safeguard worship centres, while others rely on community vigilantes.
Abaniwonda assured residents that Delta State will not become a safe haven for criminal gangs, insisting that the Command is committed to protecting lives, property, and sacred spaces.
Meanwhile, the two suspects remain in custody as investigations continue, with authorities promising to charge them to court once due processes are completed.
