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By Christopher Oji and Joe Obukata Ogbodu, Warri
The Delta State Police Command has arrested two members of a syndicate that specialised in robbing churches at night, and carting awa y church instruments and other items in the state.
The arrest following complaints received from concerned residents on the activities of the syndicate in the state
Following the intelligence report, the commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda directed Divisional police officers (DPOs) to embark on intelligence-led investigation and ensure that the suspects were rounded up, arrested and brought to book.
Delta state police public relations officer, SP Bright Edafe, who confirmed this yesterday, said that in compliance with the CP’s directives, on September 16, 2025, the Command received a distress call about an imminent armed attack on Dominican City Church along Polytechnic Road by Sticals Hotel.
He said that responding swiftly to the intelligence report, patrol teams from the Ogwashi-Uku Division, working closely with local vigilantes, led by the DPO, CSP Israel Okomoyon, intercepted a gold-coloured Toyota Sienna Space Van, with number plate: EFR 150 XB, with two occupants.
He mentioned the occupants as : Emmanuel Emiowor,21 of PTI Road, Warri, and Noah Philip , 20,of PTI Road, Warri.
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According to Edafe , a search of the suspects and the vehicle yielded the following exhibits: One Pump Action Gun, Three Single Barrel locally made guns, one locally fabricated revolver gun, one live cartridge, one Iron rod (used in breaking church doors).
He said that upon interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of a syndicate that specialised in attacking churches.
“Some looted properties have already been recovered. Both suspects, along with the exhibits, are in custody, and a discreet investigation has commenced, Edafe further disclosed.
In his response, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, reaffirmed the unwavering determination of the Command to rid the State of criminal elements.
He emphasised that the state would never be allowed to become a safe haven for crime, noting that the Command remains relentless in pursuing offenders and dismantling their networks.
Olufemi, called for continuous support and cooperation of residents, assuring that citizens can always reach out to the police through the Command’s dedicated emergency line: 08036684974, or visit the nearest police station to report suspicious activities and seek timely assistance.
