By Prince Ejakpomevi
IN a breakthrough against violent criminal networks, the Delta State Police Command has successfully apprehended prominent cult leaders linked to a murder in Ughelli and seized firearms during a separate operation in the state capital, Asaba.
Operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), led by ASP Julius Robinson, raided a hotel in Ekuigbo, Ughelli Town, acting on credible intelligence about the suspects involved in a cult-related killing that occurred on 15, January 2026 in the Iwhrekpokpo area of the town.
The operation resulted in the arrest of Joshua Okpogona, male, 30, of Okwarabe Community, the current leader of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity in Ughelli, allegedly the mastermind behind the killing. Also apprehended was Raphael Omokerhe, 37, popularly known as “Black Python,” the former leader of the same cult group.
Following another intelligence-led operation also coordinated by ASP Julius Robinson, a criminal hideout at the Umuonaji area near the “Stop Abortion’’ junction, Asaba, was raided, leading to the arrest of Chukwudi Ekenna, male, 22.
Subsequently, a thorough search of the hideout uncovered one Beretta pistol, two locally made cut-to-size guns, and ten live cartridges, which ared` believed to have been used in cult-related and armed robbery activities within Asaba and its surrounding areas. The suspect remains in police custody and has provided valuable information aiding ongoing efforts to apprehend additional members of the criminal network.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to dismantling cultism, violent crimes, and other criminal activities across the State.
The Commissioner further urged the public to continue supporting the police with credible, timely information, emphasising that community cooperation is vital to ensuring a safer Delta State.
