Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested 25 suspected cult members during an operation targeting an alleged initiation gathering in Agbarho, authorities said.
According to the police, the operation was carried out in the early hours of June 16 by officers attached to the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) following intelligence reports.
Police spokesperson SP Bright Edafe said investigators received information alleging that individuals believed to be members of the Eiye Confraternity were assembling at the location and were suspected of planning further violence. Authorities also alleged possible links between some of the suspects and recent cult-related killings in Agbor community.
Edafe stated that officers encountered resistance after arriving at the location and came under gunfire during the operation.
“Upon arrival at the location, the operatives came under gunfire from some of the suspects. The police team responded professionally, during which two of the suspects sustained gunshot injuries,” the statement said.
Police said the operation resulted in the arrest of 25 suspects, while others reportedly fled before they could be apprehended.
Authorities also announced the recovery of one pump-action shotgun and one cut-to-size firearm from the scene.
The injured suspects are receiving medical treatment, according to police, while investigations continue.
Cult-related violence has remained a security concern in parts of Delta State, with authorities carrying out operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks and preventing retaliatory attacks. No formal charges had been announced at the time of reporting.
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