By John Moses
Authorities in Nigeria’s Delta State have apprehended four individuals suspected of cult-related activities following a targeted police operation in the Mosogar community of Ethiope West Local Government Area.
Spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, Superintendent Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrests on Monday, revealing that the suspects were detained last Wednesday during an intelligence-led operation by the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), led by Assistant Superintendent Julius Robinson.
According to Edafe, the operation was initiated based on credible intelligence regarding the activities of suspected cultists operating in and around Mosogar. A search of two suspects’ residences uncovered a cache of weapons and other incriminating items.
Recovered from the scene were a locally fabricated Baretta pistol loaded with two rounds of live ammunition, two locally made firearms, eight cartridges, multiple mobile phones, a laptop, and materials believed to be used in fetish rituals.
Further investigation resulted in the arrest of two additional suspects, believed to be members of the Aiye confraternity, a notorious cult group with a history of violent activities in Nigeria.
The suspects remain in police custody, and an investigation is currently ongoing to determine the full extent of their operations and possible affiliations.