The Delta State Police Command has arrested four suspected members of an alleged gun-running syndicate following an investigation into the recovery of a Beretta pistol in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.
The suspects — Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, Clifford Boleyelefa, Amadi Princewill, and Amadi Felix Chibuike — were apprehended during intelligence-led operations conducted across Bayelsa and Imo states.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, disclosed the development during a press briefing on Monday, describing the arrests as a significant breakthrough in the command’s efforts to combat illegal arms trafficking.
According to the police, the investigation stemmed from the recovery of a firearm on May 1, 2026, at a motor park in Effurun. Detectives subsequently launched an operation to trace the source and movement of the weapon.
The first breakthrough came on May 4 when operatives arrested Emmanuel Chukwuemeka in Bayelsa State alongside an associate whose mobile phone was allegedly used in communication related to the firearm transaction.
Investigators said Chukwuemeka confessed to purchasing the Beretta pistol from Amadi Princewill for ₦290,000 before reselling it to a man identified as Desmond, who remains on the run.
Police further alleged that Desmond later transported the firearm to Effurun, where it became linked to the late Oghenemine Ogidi, who was reportedly tasked with delivering the weapon to Sapele.
Acting on information obtained during the investigation, detectives tracked and arrested Amadi Princewill in Imo State on May 15. During interrogation, Princewill allegedly revealed that he had purchased the firearm from Amadi Felix Chibuike for ₦200,000.
The confession led to the arrest of Chibuike in Owerri on May 16, further strengthening the case against the suspected syndicate.
Police authorities also alleged that the suspects are members of the Black Axe confraternity, also known as the Neo Black Movement. However, one of the suspects, Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, acknowledged his membership of the group but denied involvement in criminal activities.
“I earn a living through my personal business activities,” he reportedly told investigators, adding that he joined the organisation on January 7, 2026.
The command said efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the network, including the fugitive Desmond, who remains a key figure in the investigation.
CP Oyeniyi reaffirmed the command’s commitment to dismantling criminal groups involved in illegal arms circulation and maintaining public safety across Delta State. He added that the suspects would be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
