(DDM) – The Delta State Police Command has recorded another significant breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against armed criminal gangs operating in Oghara and neighbouring communities in Ethiope West Local Government Area.
DDM gathered that the latest success followed a series of coordinated intelligence-driven operations carried out by the CP-Special Assignment Team, otherwise known as CP-SAT, under the leadership of ASP Julius Robinson.
The operation is part of an expanded offensive aimed at dismantling organised networks of cultists, armed robbers, and gun-running syndicates believed to be responsible for several criminal incidents within the region.
According to the Command, the renewed crackdown was triggered by earlier arrests made on November 24, 2025, during which suspected cultists confessed their involvement in violent activities and a pump-action firearm was recovered.
Police sources said the confessions provided fresh leads that prompted the CP-SAT unit to intensify surveillance around known criminal hideouts and strategically sensitive locations in Oghara.
Acting swiftly on the new intelligence, the team launched follow-up operations across multiple locations on November 25, 2025, targeting individuals linked to the earlier arrests.
During the coordinated raid, officers apprehended two additional suspects identified as 38-year-old Justice Ikutu and 55-year-old Peter Okomeje.
The suspects were reportedly picked up at different locations in Oghara following covert monitoring and verification of intelligence reports.
Further investigation led the security team to the residence of another associate, identified as one Peter Kome, where officers conducted a thorough and authorised search.
During the search, the police recovered a high-profile weapon, an AK-47 rifle fitted with a double magazine, believed to have been used in a series of cult-related and armed robbery activities.
The Command confirmed that other incriminating items associated with violent crimes were also seized at the residence.
All arrested suspects have been taken into police custody, where they are currently undergoing interrogation as part of efforts to identify additional gang members and uncover the full operational structure of the criminal network.
The Police Command said investigations remain ongoing and more arrests are expected as CP-SAT expands its operational net around Oghara and adjoining communities.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended the professionalism, diligence, and rapid response displayed by ASP Robinson and the entire CP-SAT unit.
He described the latest recovery and arrests as a major step toward dismantling several coordinated criminal cells that have troubled the region.
CP Abaniwonda urged residents to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement, and provide timely, credible information to help the Command strengthen safety across Delta State.
He assured the public that the police will continue to deploy intelligence-led strategies, community collaboration, and sustained operations to curb crime and restore lasting peace.
The Commissioner reiterated the Command’s commitment to making Delta State unsafe for criminals and ensuring a secure environment for citizens, businesses, and visitors.