By Nkechi Eze
In a major crackdown on cybercrime and cultism in Delta State, troops of the Headquarters 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 1 Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), have arrested 183 suspected internet fraudsters and one suspected cultist in coordinated raid operations carried out on Saturday, July 19, 2025.
Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations for 63 Brigade Asaba, Captain Iliya Bawa Rijau, who disclosed this in an official statement, said the arrests followed credible intelligence reports on the activities of suspected internet fraud syndicates operating in Warri and surrounding areas.
The military operation, which was executed with precision, targeted multiple apartments suspected to be functioning as training centres for internet fraud, also known locally as “Yahoo Yahoo.” The suspects, all male, aged between 16 and 29, were arrested in the raid and are currently undergoing preliminary investigations.
During the operation, troops recovered an impressive haul of incriminating items including 274 assorted laptops, 87 mobile phones, 9 laptop chargers, 1 table phone, and 2 Wi-Fi devices. These items, authorities believe, were being used to facilitate various forms of cybercrime.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to eradicating cybercrime and all forms of criminality that pose a threat to national security and societal wellbeing. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects will be handed over to appropriate agencies for further action,” the Army spokesperson stated.
In a separate but related operation on the same day, troops arrested a 26-year-old suspected cultist, Mr. Igbe Lucky Chika, in the Ezionun Community of Delta State. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is a known member of the notorious Viking cult group.
Items recovered from the suspect include a locally fabricated firearm, an axe, a cutlass, two mobile phones, and a Toyota Camry vehicle bearing registration number Delta ASB 41 BE. The suspect will be transferred to the relevant security agency for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the successful operations, the Commander of 63 Brigade/Sector 1 Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe, Brigadier General M.A. Shonibare, praised the troops for their professionalism, swift response, and unrelenting commitment to maintaining law and order in the region.
“These operations demonstrate the resolve of the Nigerian Army to rid our communities of crime and ensure the safety of citizens. We urge the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist security agencies in tackling criminal elements,” General Shonibare stated.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its determination to continue the fight against cybercrime, cultism, and all forms of insecurity, urging communities in Delta State and beyond to partner with security forces in achieving lasting peace.
