The Delta State Police Command has apprehended a suspected cultist believed to be part of a notorious kidnappers’ syndicate. The arrest followed an investigation into the murder of Regina Ogana, who was abducted alongside her family on August 2, 2023.
DSP Bright Edafe, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state, revealed in a statement that the husband of the deceased reported a suspicious call from his brother, Eseoghene Ezekiel Obeje, claiming to be kidnapped. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of N500,000, which was transferred to Eseoghene’s account.
Commissioner of Police, CP Wale Abass, instructed the Divisional Police Officer Oreropke to lead an intelligence-based investigation to apprehend the culprits. Acting on this directive, operatives of the Divisional Anti-Crime Patrol team arrested Eseoghene Ezekiel Obeje on August 11, 2023, in Odovie community, Ughelli North LGA. He was arrested at the spot where a ransom of N1,300,000.00 had been paid for the release of his elder brother.
Investigation revealed that Eseoghene was a member of the Eiye Confraternity and had faked his own kidnapping. He was also suspected of orchestrating the kidnapping of his own family members, resulting in the death of Regina Ogana. The suspect is currently in custody while the investigation continues.
In a separate incident, on August 10, 2023, the Rapid Response Squad arrested Igwe Uche, Victor Agogozia, and Afam Okoro Victor in Issele-Azagba community, Aniocha North LGA. A search of the suspects led to the recovery of a locally-made cut-to-size pistol, a single-barrel gun, and a live cartridge. The suspects and seized items are under custody, and efforts are underway to capture other members of their gang.
Furthermore, on August 13, 2023, the DPO of Kwale Division, CSP Edwin Igoche, acted on credible intelligence about an impending attack in Umusadege quarters. Ugo Uzoka and Ebinum Snu were arrested, and one cut-to-size gun and six cartridges were confiscated from them. The suspects are currently held in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.