By Olatunbosun Obafemi
Troops of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 1 of the Joint Task Force South South, Operation Delta Safe, have arrested 183 suspected internet fraudsters and one suspected cultist during coordinated operations in Delta State.
According to a statement released by Captain Iliyasu Bawa Rijau, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, the operation took place on July 19, 2025, in Warri and was based on credible intelligence. The 183 suspects, all males between the ages of 16 and 29, were apprehended from several apartments believed to be cybercrime training hubs.
During the operation, troops recovered 274 assorted laptops, 87 mobile phones, nine laptop chargers, a table phone, and two WiFi devices. The military said investigations are ongoing and that all suspects will be dealt with according to the law.
In a related development, troops also apprehended one Mr. Igbe Lucky Chika, 26, in Ezionun Community. He is alleged to be a member of the Viking cult group. Items recovered from him include a locally made firearm, an axe, a cutlass, two mobile phones, and a Toyota Camry with registration number Delta ASB 41 BE.
Preliminary investigations reportedly confirmed his membership in the cult group. The suspect is to be handed over to relevant security agencies for further investigation and prosecution.
Commander of the 63 Brigade and Sector 1, Brigadier General MA Shonibare, praised the troops for their professionalism during the operations. He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to combating crime and removing criminal elements from society, particularly in areas prone to cybercrime and cult activities.
The Nigerian Army has urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
