Troops of the Nigerian Army under the 63 Brigade, Sector 1, Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta Safe, have dismantled a criminal gang operating in parts of Delta State.
DDM gathered that the coordinated military operation was carried out in Oshimili North Local Government Area following actionable intelligence.
The operation targeted criminal elements suspected to be involved in cult-related violence and arms proliferation.
Military sources disclosed that the raid was conducted around the Ibusa axis of Oshimili North LGA.
Two suspected cult members were arrested during the initial phase of the operation.
The suspects were apprehended after intelligence reports linked them to ongoing criminal activities in the area.
Troops recovered two pump-action rifles from the arrested suspects during the raid.
The weapons were allegedly being used to perpetrate violent crimes within the community.
In a related development, three additional pump-action rifles were recovered from individuals described as local vigilantes.
The vigilantes were accused of unlawfully possessing firearms without proper authorization.
Military authorities said the discovery raised concerns about illegal arms circulation within local communities.
Following the initial success, troops conducted follow-up clearance operations in nearby areas.
The subsequent sweep was carried out in Umuisiagba, a community within the same local government area.
During the follow-up operation, eight more pump-action rifles were recovered by the troops.
The weapons were found in hideouts believed to be linked to criminal networks.
Thirteen additional suspects were arrested during the Umuisiagba operation.
Among those arrested were individuals identified as Nwaokonta Elvis and Obi Victor Woke.
The suspects are believed to have played active roles in criminal activities within the area.
Military officials said investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the gang’s operations.
The suspects are also expected to provide information on arms suppliers and collaborators.
The Nigerian Army said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to rid Delta State of criminal elements.
Operation Delta Safe was established to tackle militancy, cultism, oil theft, and other security threats in the Niger Delta.
Security agencies have repeatedly expressed concern over the spread of illegal firearms in the region.
The presence of such weapons has been linked to recurring violence and insecurity.
Residents of Oshimili North have in the past complained about cult clashes and armed robberies.
The latest operation is expected to bring temporary relief to affected communities.
Brigadier General Morounfolu Shonibare, Commander of the 63 Brigade, commended the troops for their professionalism.
He praised their discipline and swift response to intelligence reports.
Shonibare assured residents of Delta State of the Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
He warned criminal elements to desist from illegal activities or face decisive military action.
The commander said the Army would continue to work with other security agencies to maintain peace.
He also urged members of the public to support security operations by providing credible information.
According to him, community cooperation remains critical to achieving lasting security.
The Nigerian Army emphasized that lawful citizens have nothing to fear from ongoing operations.
Military authorities reiterated their zero-tolerance stance on illegal possession of arms.
They warned that anyone found with unauthorized weapons would be prosecuted in line with the law.
Security analysts say sustained operations like this are vital to curbing crime in Delta State.
They note that intelligence-led raids reduce the capacity of criminal groups to regroup.
Residents have called for continuous patrols to prevent a resurgence of criminal activity.
The Army said patrols and surveillance will be intensified across flashpoints in the state.
The operation underscores renewed efforts to stabilize the South-South region.
Authorities believe disarming criminal gangs will improve public safety and economic activities.
The suspects are expected to be handed over to relevant agencies for further investigation and prosecution.
The Army reiterated its resolve to ensure Delta State remains safe and secure.
The successful operation reflects ongoing collaboration between security forces and local communities.
Officials say similar operations will continue across other parts of the Niger Delta.
