By Praise Afolabi
The Delta State Police Command says it has arrested two suspected armed robbers believed to be part of a gang that specialises in attacking churches and carting away musical instruments and other valuables.
The suspects, identified as 21-year-old Emmanuel Emiowor and 20-year-old Noah Philip, both residents of PTI Road, Warri, were intercepted on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, by operatives of the Ogwashi-Uku Division during a patrol along Polytechnic Road by Sticals Hotel.
According to the police, the operation followed a distress call about an imminent attack on Dominican City Church. Officers, working in collaboration with local vigilantes and led by the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Israel Okomoyon, stopped a gold-coloured Toyota Sienna (registration number EFR-150-XB) in which the suspects were travelling.
A search of the vehicle yielded a pump action gun, three locally-made single-barrel guns, a locally fabricated revolver, one live cartridge and an iron rod allegedly used for breaking into churches. Police say the suspects confessed during interrogation to being part of a syndicate that has been terrorising churches across the state. Some stolen items have already been recovered.
The Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended the officers for the successful operation and reiterated the command’s resolve to rid Delta State of criminal elements. He urged residents to continue supporting the police with credible information, stressing that “Delta State will never be allowed to become a safe haven for crime.”
The command advised the public to report suspicious activities through its emergency line, 08036684974, or at the nearest police station.
