By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
A major security sweep in Delta State has blown open the underworld of organised crime, as Nigerian Army troops dismantled a suspected criminal gang, arrested multiple suspects and recovered a significant cache of weapons in a series of coordinated operations.
Troops of 63 Brigade, Sector 1 of the Joint Task Force, South South, Operation DELTA SAFE, struck following credible intelligence pointing to the activities of a notorious cult-linked gang operating within Oshimili North Local Government Area.
The intelligence-led operation, executed around Ibusa, culminated in the arrest of two key suspects, believed to be central figures in the group’s operations.
A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of two pump-action rifles directly from the suspects.
In a twist that widened the scope of the investigation, troops also recovered three additional pump-action rifles from individuals posing as local vigilantes raising fresh concerns over the infiltration of community security structures by criminal elements.
The operation did not stop there.
In a follow-up sweep aimed at flushing out remaining accomplices and hidden arms, troops combed surrounding areas, leading to the discovery of eight more pump-action rifles at Umuisiagba.
The extended operation resulted in the arrest of 13 additional suspects, including individuals identified as Nwaokonta Elvis, Obi Victor Woke, Uba Elijah, Nonso Ibiora, Dumbili Ezefili, Ndefu Ifeanyi, Ozemene Richard, Broderick Patrick, Nwaokonta Afamefile, Kelvin Ejiani, Victor Ogochukwu, Ogadi Kelvin Ikechukwu and Ndibuisi Obiogonna, a native doctor alleged to be linked to the group.
All suspects and recovered weapons have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Security officials say the scale of the recoveries points to a well-armed network capable of destabilising communities, underscoring the importance of proactive intelligence and sustained military presence in the state.
Commending the troops for their vigilance and professionalism, the Commander of 63 Brigade, Brigadier General MA Shonibare, charged them to maintain pressure on all criminal networks operating within the brigade’s area of responsibility.
He reassured residents of Delta State and neighbouring communities that the Army remains fully committed to the protection of lives and property.
As security forces tighten the noose, the latest operation sends a clear signal to criminal elements across Delta State: the dragnet is tightening, and armed networks are increasingly running out of hiding places.
