The Delta State Police have apprehended a group of individuals involved in a series of armed robberies targeting churches at night. These robberies typically involved the theft of church equipment and other valuables.
The arrest was confirmed in a statement released by the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on Wednesday. According to Edafe, the police were prompted to take action after receiving multiple complaints from local residents about a group responsible for raiding churches. This led to an investigation ordered by the State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, who directed police officers to conduct an intelligence-driven investigation and ensure the culprits were brought to justice.
On September 16, 2025, the police responded to a distress call regarding a potential robbery at the Dominican City Church, located along Polytechnic Road near Sticals Hotel. In response, officers from the Ogwashi-Uku Division, in collaboration with local vigilantes and led by DPO CSP Israel Okomoyon, successfully intercepted a gold-colored Toyota Sienna van. The vehicle, with registration number EFR-150-XB, contained two suspects: Emmanuel Emiowor, 21, and Noah Philip, 20, both residents of PTI Road, Warri.
A search of the suspects and their vehicle uncovered several weapons, including one pump-action shotgun, three locally made single-barrel guns, one homemade revolver, a live cartridge, and an iron rod, which is believed to have been used to break into churches.
During questioning, the suspects admitted to being part of a larger criminal group that has been targeting churches. Some of the stolen items have already been recovered, and both suspects are now in custody. An investigation is ongoing.
CP Abaniwonda reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the state remains free of criminal activity. He assured the public that the police would continue their efforts to dismantle criminal networks and hold offenders accountable.
