The Delta State Police Command has apprehended four individuals suspected of cult activities in Mosogar community, Ethiope West Local Government Area, recovering various weapons and items during the operation.
According to Police Spokesman SP Bright Edafe, who addressed journalists on Monday in Warri, the arrests were carried out on Wednesday by the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) led by ASP Julius Robinson.
"Acting on credible intelligence on the activities of cultists within Mosogar and its environs, CP-SAT stormed the residence of two of the suspects," Edafe stated.
During preliminary investigation, authorities executed a search warrant on the premises, which led to significant discoveries. "While searching, a black bag containing a fabricated Baretta pistol, loaded with two rounds of live ammunition and two locally-made guns, was recovered," the police spokesman revealed.
Additional items seized during the operation included eight rounds of live cartridges, multiple phones, a laptop, and various fetish substances, highlighting the extent of the suspects' alleged criminal activities.
The initial arrests subsequently led investigators to two additional suspects in the same community, who are believed to be members of the Aiye confraternity, a notorious cult group operating in the region.
Rising Concerns Over Cult Activities in Delta
This operation comes amid growing concerns about cult-related violence and criminal activities in Delta State. The recovery of weapons suggests a potential for violence that police intervention may have prevented.
The presence of fetish substances among the recovered items points to the ritualistic aspects often associated with cult groups in Nigeria, which frequently combine criminal activities with mystical practices to intimidate communities and rivals.
SP Edafe confirmed that all four suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue. Authorities are likely examining potential connections to other criminal activities in the region and working to identify additional members of the network.
The Delta State Police Command has intensified efforts to combat cultism and related criminal activities across the state, with special units like CP-SAT focusing on intelligence-led operations to disrupt these networks before they can carry out violent acts.
Stay connected with BenriNews for updates on this developing story and more news from Delta State.
Follow BenriNews on social media: Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn | WhatsApp | Telegram
