The Delta State Police Command has arrested four suspected gunrunners linked to the unlawful possession and trafficking of a Berretta pistol recovered in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, as part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal arms networks in the state.
The suspects, Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, Clifford Boleyelefa, Amadi Princewill, and Amadi Chibuike were apprehended in separate, intelligence-led operations carried out across Bayelsa and Imo States following a sustained investigation that uncovered a wider chain of arms distribution and multiple accomplices, with at least one suspect still on the run.
According to the police, the breakthrough began after Emmanuel Chukwuemeka was arrested in Bayelsa State on May 4, 2026, alongside his roommate, whose phone he allegedly used to facilitate communication in the illegal purchase of the firearm.
During interrogation, Emmanuel reportedly confessed to buying the pistol from Amadi Princewill for ₦290,000 and later reselling it to a buyer identified as Desmond, who is currently at large, for ₦380,000.
According to his statement, Desmond allegedly transported the weapon to Effurun and contacted another associate, Oghenemine Ogidi, now deceased, to retrieve and move the firearm to Sapele, further widening the alleged trafficking network.
Following Emmanuel’s confession, detectives tracked and arrested Amadi Princewill in Imo State on May 15, 2026.
The command disclosed that Princewill, upon interrogation, admitted to purchasing the firearm from Amadi Chibuike for ₦200,000, a revelation that led investigators to the final suspect.
Acting on this information, operatives trailed and arrested Chibuike in Owerri, Imo State, on May 16, 2026.
The command alleged that all four suspects are linked to the Black Axe confraternity, which is suspected of having involvement in organized criminal activities, including arms trafficking.
The Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, on Monday confirmed the arrests and stated that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
He added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, including the elusive Desmond, who remains at large.