Man Allegedly Shot for Rejecting Cult Life as Eiye Member on Police Wanted List Arrested

A 28-year-old man alleged to be on the Delta State Police Command’s wanted list has been arrested in Jesse, Ethiope West Local Government Area, following claims that he shot another resident who had reportedly renounced cult membership.

The suspect, identified as Oghenebuba Mamatime, was apprehended in a joint operation involving officers of the Jesse Police Division and community youths after a fresh complaint was lodged by the injured victim.

The victim (name withheld) who made a complaint to the police, alleged that he was attacked by the suspect, who had earlier been linked to a shooting incident along Ujomi Road in Jesse on July 2, 2026.

Police said the suspect was on their wanted list in connection with that incident before his arrest.

During the operation, security operatives reportedly recovered three locally made pistols and one locally fabricated single-barrel gun from the suspect.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the attack stemmed from the victim’s decision to distance himself from cult activities. An argument broke out after the suspect attempted to pressure him into remaining in the Eiye confraternity, eventually leading to the shooting.

The suspect remains in police custody while investigations continue.

Reacting to the arrest, Delta State Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the collaboration between officers and members of the Jesse community, describing local support as an important factor in tackling cult-related violence.

He encouraged residents to continue working with security agencies by providing credible information on criminal activities, while urging young people to stay away from cult groups and other forms of crime.

The latest arrest comes amid renewed efforts by security agencies and community stakeholders to curb cult violence, which has remained a recurring security concern in parts of Delta State.