Troops Neutralizes Suspected Cultist in Gun Battle

Troops of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army/Sector 1, Joint Task Force (JTF), South South(SS), Operation DELTA SAFE (OPDS) have arrested, a notorious suspected cultist identified as Stephen Fragene Pessu, and neutralized another at Pessu Community, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations
63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Cap. ILIYASU Bawa-Rijau said, the arrested notorious criminal, has confessed to be a member of a dreaded gang terrorizing the area and its environs and have provided credible information on their activities. The gang was implicated severally in kidnapping for ransom, with evidence of payments made to secure the release of their victims.

According to the statement, further investigation revealed that the group is armed with lethal weapons, used during recent clashes. Troops conducted a follow-up operations, which resulted in a firefight, during which Mr Dele was neutralized, and a pump-action gun recovered from the scene.

“The operation is ongoing, with troops combing the general area, to arrest other members of the gang. Additionally, efforts are intensified to recover the  weapons in their possession”.  The statement added.

While, commending troops for their resilience, the Commander, 63 Brigade/Sector 1, JTF SS OPDS, Brigadier MA Shonibare has charged them to clampdown on all criminal elements in the area. He also reassured the good people of Delta Sate and environs that the Brigade under his watch would continue to effectively prioritizes the safety of lives and property. He also called on them to go about their socioeconomic activities as adequate measures are emplaced for their safety and security.