Police Arrest Suspected Cult Leader and Robbery Gang, Recover Arms and Cash
The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on cultism and violent crimes, resulting in the arrest of a 32-year-old suspected cult leader, Peter Onajite, and the recovery of firearms and other exhibits. In a separate operation, Imo State police arrested five suspected armed robbers and seized significant cash, motorcycles, and a vehicle, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks across Nigeria.
Delta State Operations: Cult Leader Apprehended
On April 11, 2026, at approximately 11:45 a.m., police operatives in Delta State conducted a routine surveillance patrol in Orerokpe, Okpe Local Council. During this operation, they intercepted Peter Onajite, who was subsequently searched. The search yielded a locally made double-barrel cut-to-size pistol, two live cartridges, one expended cartridge, and sachets of suspected Tramadol.
According to SP Bright Edafe, the spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, Onajite confessed to being the leader of the Juris Confraternity, a cult group known for violent activities in parts of the state. The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue to uncover further details about the group's operations.
Additional Cult-Related Arrests in Ibusa
In a related development on April 12, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m., operatives attached to the Ibusa Police Station acted on intelligence regarding a suspected cult initiation ceremony. The ceremony was allegedly organized by Chinedu Onyeama, who is currently at large, along with members of the Aiye cult group.
Police mobilized to Jordan Road in Ibusa, where they arrested three suspects, including a female. A search of the premises led to the recovery of an English-made Beretta pistol loaded with one round of live ammunition, three battle axes, a hammer, a cutlass, and 39 firelighters believed to have been intended for use during the initiation. All suspects are in custody, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend Onyeama and dismantle the wider network linked to the group.
Commissioner Commends Police Efforts
Reacting to these operations, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Mr. Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the operatives for their professionalism and prompt response to credible intelligence. He reaffirmed the command's commitment to intelligence-driven policing, stating that security agencies would sustain the ongoing clampdown on cult-related activities and other forms of violent crime across the state.
Mr. Oyeniyi emphasized that these arrests underscore the command's determination to rid Delta State of criminal elements and enhance public safety, urging continued cooperation from the community.
Imo State: Major Robbery Bust and Recovery
Meanwhile, in Imo State, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit arrested five suspected armed robbers and recovered N6,495,900, 450 motorcycles, a vehicle, and other items linked to criminal activities. The suspects are linked to offences including armed robbery, attempted murder, and vehicle snatching.
The operation was led by ACP Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa, following a distress call received on April 6, 2026, at about 9:00 p.m. from Mr. Chimeze Christian of Urata, Owerri North Local Council, who reported that his driver, Paul Ejike Ohaka, had failed to return with a bus bearing registration number KPU 26 XA. Investigations revealed that the driver was found unconscious at Irete along the Onitsha Road axis, while the vehicle had been stolen. He was evacuated to Vadan Hospital in New Owerri, where he is receiving treatment.
Coordinated Investigation Leads to Arrests
Acting on the report, police launched a coordinated investigation that led to the recovery of the stolen vehicle at a workshop in Orlu, where it was about to be repainted. Two suspects, Olagoke Jelili and Godday Ezike, were arrested at the scene, with further investigations leading to the arrests of Okechukwu Prince and Raymond Odinaka.
The suspects confessed to acting on the instructions of a fleeing suspect, Osita Chigbo, also known as "Barr. Oguta." Additionally, Paul Martins Anya, identified as a receiver of stolen vehicles, was arrested. A search of the premises led to the recovery of 13 motorcycles suspected to be stolen, with follow-up operations increasing the total to 450.
Police Reject Bribery Attempt
According to Mr. Henry Okoye, the command's spokesperson, the suspects failed to provide proof of ownership for the motorcycles and attempted to relocate them to nearby bush paths to evade detection. They also attempted to bribe police officers with N5 million, but the offer was rejected in line with the command's zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
The Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Mr. Audu Garba Bosso, stated that the operation reflects the command's commitment to intelligence-led policing and ensuring that criminal elements do not find safe haven in the state. He directed that all suspects be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law, while urging the public to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information.
