The Delta State Police Command has arrested 95 suspected cultists and recovered five firearms, including two pump-action guns, during coordinated operations across four local government areas of the state.
The operations, conducted on October 15, 2026, also led to the recovery of 12 live cartridges, seven expended cartridges and items suspected to be associated with cult activities in Asaba, Ika South, Ughelli South and Okpe local government areas.
The police said the operations followed a directive by the Commissioner of Police, Samuel Erale, to intensify intelligence-led operations against cultism and related violent crimes.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, said operatives raided a hotel along Abraka Road in Asaba following intelligence that suspected members of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity (SVC), also known as Aro Bagger, had gathered for an alleged cult anniversary celebration.
According to the statement, the operation resulted in the arrest of 67 suspects, comprising 55 males and 12 females.
Items recovered from the premises included two pump-action guns, a locally fabricated cut-to-size gun, 10 live cartridges, five expended cartridges, 11 caps bearing suspected cult insignia and two jackets branded with suspected cult symbols.
In a related operation in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad arrested another 15 suspects, comprising 14 males and one female, over suspected links to the same confraternity.
Three arrested in Ughelli South
The police also arrested three suspects during a raid on a suspected criminal hideout in Jeremy Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area.
The suspects were identified as John Pius, 32; Oghene Ochuko, 28; and Akinbule Godstime, 24.
The operation was carried out by operatives of the Command Anti-Cultism Unit, Ovwian-Aladja Sector, in collaboration with a civilian anti-cult group, following intelligence about a gathering of suspected SVC members.
The police said other suspects fled the scene.
Recovered items included two locally made pistols, two live cartridges, two expended cartridges, two caps bearing suspected cult insignia and suspected charms.
In a separate operation in Jeddo Community, Okpe Local Government Area, 10 additional male suspects were arrested in connection with suspected cult activities.
The police said all the suspects and recovered exhibits were in custody, while investigations were ongoing.
Police commissioner warns cultists
Commending the operatives for their efforts, Erale directed area commanders, divisional police officers and tactical commanders to intensify operations against cult groups across Delta State.
The commissioner warned that the command would not tolerate cult-related activities capable of threatening public peace and security.
He also urged residents to support the police with credible information that could assist in identifying and apprehending criminal elements.
The command said the operations formed part of its ongoing efforts to combat cultism and other violent crimes in the state.