In a crackdown on crime across Delta state in Nigeria, the police have arrested 85 suspected criminals, including kidnappers, cultists, murder suspects, and drug traffickers. The arrests were made between April 29 and June 29, 2026, through intelligence-led operations, coordinated raids, stop-and-search operations, and improved collaboration with local vigilance groups.
According to Delta State Police Commissioner Yemi Oyeniyi, the police rescued 18 kidnap victims during the operation. Among those arrested are four suspected kidnappers linked to a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating in Ughelli, Agbarho, Sapele, and surrounding communities. A three-year-old child allegedly kidnapped by a commercial motorcyclist was also rescued.
The police recorded significant breakthroughs against cult gangs, arresting 76 suspected cultists, with 46 already charged to court and 30 still under investigation. In one of the operations, 25 suspected cult members were arrested at an initiation ground in Agbarho, where security operatives recovered a pump-action shotgun and a cut-to-size firearm.
The police also intensified operations against drug trafficking, arresting seven suspected drug dealers and recovering large quantities of controlled substances, including Tramadol, Codeine, MDMA, Rohypnol, Cannabis, and other psychoactive drugs. The Commissioner assured residents that the Command would sustain intelligence-driven policing to make Delta State hostile to criminals.
**Background**
The crackdown on crime in Delta state is part of ongoing efforts by the police to reduce criminal activities in the region. The operation involved coordinated raids, stop-and-search operations, and improved collaboration with local vigilance groups. The Commissioner urged members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to aid their efforts.
**Recovery of Firearms**
During the operation, the police recovered 32 firearms, including three AK-47 rifles, four pump-action guns, two Beretta pistols, several locally fabricated firearms, 197 rounds of live AK-47 ammunition, and 219 live cartridges.