Troops Arrest Suspected Gang Members and Seize Weapons in Delta State

By Zainab Uzomah

Troops of Nigeria’s 63 Brigade under Operation Delta Safe have arrested members of an alleged criminal gang and recovered a cache of weapons during raids in Oshimili North, Delta State.

In a statement signed by Captain Iliyasu Bawa-Rijau, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the Brigade said the operation was launched following credible intelligence on the activities of a suspected cult group operating around Ibusa. Two individuals were arrested in the initial raid, during which troops recovered two pump-action rifles reportedly in their possession. Another three rifles were seized from individuals described as “purported local vigilantes”.

The Army added that a follow-up operation in Umuisiagba led to the discovery of eight more pump-action rifles. Thirteen suspects were arrested during the sweep. The military identified them 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, described as a native doctor.

All suspects and recovered weapons have been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation.

Brigadier General M.A. Shonibare, Commander of 63 Brigade, commended the troops for what he described as their vigilance and urged them to intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the region. He assured residents of Delta State that the Brigade remained committed to safeguarding lives and property.