19-year-old Delta student arrested for illegal gun possession

A 19-year-old student from a university in Delta State, DGreat Nwadozie, said the gun found with him during a stop-and-search was bought for N320,000 for self-defense.

Nwadozie shared this in a video during questioning. The video was posted on X by Bright Edafe, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, on Tuesday.

Edafe mentioned that officers caught the suspect with the firearm at a roundabout in Asaba. He added that three other suspects were arrested in connection to this case. A search at Nwadozie's home also found an axe.

He wrote, "These suspects were caught in possession of a gun recovered by policemen on stop-and-search duty. The main suspect, identified as DGreat, bought the gun in Onitsha for the sum of N350,000 and was preparing to be initiated into the Vikings Confraternity. He is only 19 years old and studying Criminology and Security Studies."

In the interrogation video, Nwadozie said he reached out to a man named Godwin, who helped him buy the locally made pistol at a market in Onitsha. He claimed he needed the gun due to harassment from some Hausas.

He stated, "My name is DGreat Nwadozie. I am 19 years old. I am a student of Osadebe University. I bought the gun for protection from Mr Godwin at the rate of N320,000. He took me to a place where I bought it."

Nwadozie continued, "I bought it for protection because we are usually disturbed by Hausa people and to collect development fees."

When asked if he planned to join a cult group, he confirmed it. "I am about to be initiated into the Vikings cult group," he said.

He also showed regret for his actions. "I feel sorry about it," he added.

Edafe ended the questioning by advising young people against crime. He stressed that such activities often lead to imprisonment or even death.

This incident happens as security agencies work hard to reduce cult violence and illegal firearms in Delta State and across Nigeria.

PUNCH Metro reported that the Delta State Police Command has stepped up stop-and-search operations and raids targeting suspected cultists, kidnappers, and armed robbers in the state.

In May, the command arrested 11 suspected cultists and seized firearms, ammunition, and other dangerous items in various operations across the state.

Edafe mentioned that these operations are part of a broader crackdown on cultism, illegal firearms, and violent crimes.