Two Nabbed with Stolen Church Equipment in Delta as Police Recover Pump Action Gun, Other Firearms

Two members of a suspected syndicate that attacks churches at night, and cart away church instruments and other items in the state, have been apprehended.

The Police Command in Delta State, arrested the two following complaints received from concerned residents on the activities of the syndicate in the state

Following the intelligence report, the commissioner of Police Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda directed DPOs to embark on an intelligence-led investigation and ensure that these suspects are rounded up, arrested and brought to book.

State Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe, who confirmed this yesterday, said that in compliance with the CP’s directives, on 16th September 2025, the Command received a distress call about an imminent armed attack on Dominican City Church along Polytechnic Road by Sticals Hotel.

He said that responding swiftly to the intelligence report, patrol teams from the Ogwashi-Uku Division, working closely with local vigilantes, led by the DPO, CSP Israel Okomoyon, intercepted a gold-coloured Toyota Sienna Space Van, Reg. no: EFR-150-XB, with two occupant.

He mentioned the occupants as Emmanuel Emiowor, (21yrs) of PTI Road, Warri, and Noah Philip (20yrs) of PTI Road, Warri.

According to the police spokesman, a search of the suspects and the vehicle yielded the following exhibits: One (1) Pump Action Gun, Three (3) Single Barrel Locally Made Guns, One (1) Locally Fabricated Revolver Gun, One (1) Live Cartridge, One (1) Iron Rod (used in breaking church doors).

He said that upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of a syndicate that specialises in attacking churches.

“Some looted properties have already been recovered. Both suspects, along with the exhibits, are in custody, and a discreet investigation has commenced, Edafe further disclosed.

In his response, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, reaffirmed the unwavering determination of the Command to rid the State of criminal elements.

He emphasised that Delta State will never be allowed to become a safe haven for crime, noting that the Command remains relentless in pursuing offenders and dismantling their networks.

CP Olufemi, called for continuous support and cooperation of residents, assuring that citizens can always reach out to the Police through the Command’s dedicated emergency line: 08036684974, or visit the nearest police station to report suspicious activities and seek timely assistance.