Police arrest suspected traditionalist, recover arms in Delta

Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested a traditionalist, Chukwuka Nzete, and another suspect, Joel Iwomi, 36, over alleged illegal possession of firearms.

The police also recovered two pump-action guns, 18 live cartridges and other dangerous items from the suspects.

The suspects were arrested in Isupe Community, Ndokwa West Local Government Area, and Ukwuani Local Government Area, respectively, during separate intelligence-led operations aimed at curbing the proliferation of illegal firearms and violent crime in the state.

The command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, said the suspects were arrested by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) and the Command Anti-Cult Unit (CACU).

Edafe said Nzete was suspected of involvement in the illegal sale and proliferation of firearms and allegedly operated a shrine where suspected criminal elements were fortified.

He said a search of Nzete’s residence led to the recovery of one pump-action gun, four dagger knives, one battle axe and pots containing substances suspected to be charms.

The spokesperson said the police also received intelligence that Iwomi was in possession of a firearm and ammunition, prompting operatives to storm his residence.

According to him, Iwomi resisted the operatives’ attempt to gain access to the premises, but a subsequent search led to the recovery of one pump-action gun and 18 live cartridges.

Edafe said the suspects were in custody while investigation into the matter continued.