The Delta State Police Command has achieved a significant milestone in its ongoing battle against cultism and violent crime with the arrest of 13 suspected members of a notorious cult group.
The operation reportedly took place during a tactical intervention in the Ekraka community forest located in Kokori, Ethiope East Local Government Area.
Spokesman of the Command, SP Bright Edafe, said on December 20, 2025, police operatives acted on credible intelligence regarding a planned initiation ceremony by the cult members in the forest.
Edafe said the operatives, led by SP Collins Achem, Commander of the Quick Response Squad (QRS), executed the operation in a highly strategic manner.
He stated that the incident occurred around 2300 hours, when the suspects were confronted by a police patrol team.
The spokesman said on the patrol team’s arrival, the suspects opened fire to pave the way for their escape.
He said the police operatives demonstrated exceptional professionalism and tactical acumen, resulting in the arrest of 13 suspects.
He, however, said several other suspected cult members managed to escape into the dense forest.
Edafe said during the search of the area, law enforcement recovered an array of dangerous items, including firearms — two (2) automatic pump-action guns, one (1) double-barrel cut-to-size gun, and one (1) single-barrel cut-to-size gun.
Other Items recovered, according to the spokesman, are: One (1) battle axe, aprons displaying the “NBM” insignia, razor blades that had been cut into pieces, several mobile phones, charms, and suspected hard drugs.
Edafe said the operation underscored the Delta State Police Command’s commitment to combating cultism and ensuring the safety and security of communities.
He equally said the recovery of firearms and other dangerous items is a crucial step in curtailing the activities of violent crime syndicates in the State.
He further said that, in addition, seven vehicles believed to be owned and used by members of the cult group were recovered and towed to the QRS Base in Warri.
Edafe said the suspects are currently in custody, while investigations have commenced to establish their individual culpability, dismantle the network, and track down other fleeing members of the syndicate.
Meanwhile, the Command has said it has zero tolerance for cultism and violent crime.
The spokesman, therefore, called on parents, schools, community and faith leaders, and youths to see the fight against cultism as a shared duty, driven by guidance, positive role models, and timely reporting.
Edafe urged residents to remain vigilant and to continue supporting the police with credible information as efforts to keep Delta State safe continue.