By Nkechi Eze
Troops of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 1, Joint Task Force South South, Operation Delta Safe, have neutralized a suspected cultist and arrested another during a gun battle in Pessu Community, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State. The incident occurred on September 18, 2025, as part of ongoing operations to curb violent crime and restore peace in the region.
According to a statement signed by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 63 Brigade, Captain Iliyasu Bawa-Rijau, the troops arrested a notorious criminal identified as Stephen Fragene Pessu, who confessed to being a member of a dreaded gang terrorising the community and surrounding areas. Pessu reportedly provided credible information about the gang’s activities, which include repeated cases of kidnapping for ransom, with evidence of payments made to secure the release of victims.
Following the arrest, the troops launched a follow-up operation that led to a fierce exchange of gunfire. During the encounter, one suspect, identified as Dele, was neutralized, while a pump-action rifle was recovered from the scene. The Army disclosed that investigations revealed the gang was heavily armed and had used lethal weapons during recent clashes.
Military sources confirmed that operations are still ongoing in the area, with troops combing surrounding communities to apprehend fleeing members of the group and recover additional weapons in their possession.
Commending the troops for their resilience, the Commander, 63 Brigade/Sector 1, JTF South South, Operation Delta Safe, Brigadier General M. A. Shonibare, directed them to sustain the clampdown on criminal elements in the region. He reassured residents of Delta State and its environs that the Brigade under his command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property.
Brigadier General Shonibare further urged members of the public to continue with their normal socioeconomic activities, assuring them that adequate measures have been put in place to guarantee their safety and security.
