Police Nab Kidnappers, Cultists, Seize Battle Axe, Pistol, Drugs in Delta

Operatives from the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cybercrime Squad (SAKCCS) of the Delta State Police Command have arrested two suspected kidnappers and members of a violent cult, recovering a variety of dangerous weapons and illicit items.

Police, raided a notorious hideout in Jedo/Ugboton–Warri following credible intelligence, on January 20, 2026.

The operation led to the arrest of principal suspects Oke Jerry Ekokodjie and Ibori (surname unknown), alongside three accomplices.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe,confirming this in a statement on Thursday, said that the principal suspect, Oke Jerry Ekokodjie and Ibori, along with three others, were successfully arrested, while some members of the gang fled through adjoining creeks and waterways after the police team stormed the location.

The fleeing members managed to escape through nearby waterways, but the police recovered critical evidence, including a locally fabricated Beretta-style pistol with three rounds of 9mm ammunition, a black Mercedes-Benz GLK, a battle axe, illicit substances in large quantities, and a POS machine.

The suspects are currently in police custody, undergoing further investigation, as authorities intensify efforts to apprehend the remaining gang members.

In a related raid on January 22, 2026, Obiaruku Division police stormed a suspected cultist hideout at Amai Community, Ndokwa East Local Government Area.

Advertisement

The operation resulted in the arrest of five suspects: Frank Etiyemonu (36), Chinedu Emeka (25), Festus Nwadiche (26), Azuju Onowu (29), and Ozor Blessing (29). Officers recovered a locally made pistol, two battle axes, quantities of Indian hemp, suspected hard drugs, and other dangerous weapons.

The Delta State Police Commissioner, CP Aina Adesola, lauded the professionalism and dedication of the officers involved. She emphasized the police’s unwavering commitment to eradicating criminal elements through intelligence-led policing and urged residents to remain vigilant and supportive, providing credible information to aid ongoing operations.

The police assured the public of strict confidentiality and promised continued efforts to restore peace and security across Delta State.