The operation covered Asaba, Ika South, Ughelli South and Okpe, with police reporting the recovery of ammunition and items allegedly linked to cult activities.
By Wapcodehub9ja LIVE News Desk
The Delta State Police Command has arrested 95 suspected cultists and recovered five firearms, 12 live cartridges and seven expended cartridges during coordinated operations across four local government areas of the state.
According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, the operations took place on Thursday, October 15, 2026, in Asaba, Ika South, Ughelli South and Okpe. The exercise involved personnel from the Department of Operations, the Rapid Response Squad and the Command Anti-Cultism Unit as part of efforts to tackle cult-related activities and associated violent crimes.
The largest number of arrests occurred at a hotel along Abraka Road in Asaba, where police said 67 suspects—55 males and 12 females—were apprehended. The operation followed intelligence reports that suspected members of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity, also known as Aro Bagger, had gathered for an alleged cult anniversary celebration. Officers reportedly recovered two pump-action guns, one locally fabricated cut-to-size firearm, 10 live cartridges, five expended cartridges, 11 caps bearing suspected cult insignia and two branded jackets.
In a related operation in Agbor, within Ika South Local Government Area, police arrested another 15 suspects, comprising 14 males and one female. The command said items believed to be connected to the same confraternity were also recovered during the operation.
Police also reported the arrest of three suspects in Jeremy Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area, following intelligence about a gathering involving suspected cult members. The individuals were identified by the command as John Pius, 32; Oghene Ochuko, 28; and Akinbule Godstime, 24. Two locally made pistols, two live cartridges, two expended cartridges, two caps bearing suspected cult insignia and suspected charms were reportedly recovered. Other suspects allegedly fled the scene.
In Jeddo Community, Okpe Local Government Area, another 10 male suspects were arrested in connection with suspected cult activities. The command said the suspects and recovered exhibits remained in police custody as investigations continued. Commissioner of Police Samuel E. Erale commended the officers involved and directed area commanders, divisional police officers and tactical units to sustain operations against cult groups. He also urged residents to provide credible information to the police.
The arrests represent a significant police operation in four parts of Delta State, but the allegations against those detained remain subject to investigation and due process. An arrest does not, by itself, establish criminal guilt. Further updates from the authorities may clarify the next steps in the cases.
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