The Delta State Police Command has announced significant breakthroughs in its fight against crime, including the arrest of a suspected kidnapper, the recovery of two stolen vehicles, a Beretta pistol, and multiple vehicle keys linked to suspected criminal activities.
On October 25, 2024, operatives of the Commissioner of Police – Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) acted on intelligence to track down Philip Onoghosa, the alleged leader of a kidnapping syndicate targeting the Sapele-Warri Road. The suspect fled upon spotting police at Amukpe Roundabout in Sapele, abandoning a black Toyota Corolla with registration number SKL 330 AE. A search of the vehicle uncovered a loaded Beretta pistol beneath the driver’s seat. Police efforts to apprehend the suspect are ongoing.
In a separate incident on October 22, the Safer Highway Patrol Team intercepted a black Toyota RAV4 SUV, registration number KUJ-311-MB, on Mosogar Benin Road. The driver attempted to evade police, abandoning the vehicle and fleeing into a nearby bush. A search of the vehicle revealed keys, including two master keys and fourteen different Toyota vehicle keys, believed to be used for criminal purposes. The owner, whose particulars were found in the car, confirmed the vehicle had been stolen from his property in Kogi State. Efforts to apprehend the driver are ongoing.
Additionally, on October 21, Delta police arrested Hon. Ndubisi Okechukwu, a former councilor in Kwale’s Emu-Uno community, after receiving intelligence about a planned kidnapping. The suspect admitted he had intended to kidnap a woman close to the local government chairman to force a ransom payment, as he held a grudge following his suspension from office.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, emphasized the command’s dedication to reducing crime, especially during the “ember” months when criminal activities tend to rise. Increased patrols, raids, and surveillance operations are in effect across the state. CP Abaniwonda called on the public to assist by providing credible information to aid in crime prevention.
SP Edafe Bright, the Police Public Relations Officer for Delta State, assured residents that these operations would continue to ensure a safer environment across Delta State.