The Delta State Police Command has announced substantial successes in its ongoing operations against criminal activities across the state. In a detailed press briefing, Sp. Edafe Bright, the Police Public Relations Officer, outlined the achievements, including the arrest of multiple suspects and the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition.
On July 18, 2024, a covert operation led to the arrest of five suspected armed robbers and cultists in Oghara Town, Ethiope East Local Government Area. The suspects, identified as Ochuko Joel Ofoye, Michael Anwul, Great Ojareri, Innocent Esefeta, and Ogaga Ebuke, were apprehended with one Beretta pistol, two AK-47 magazines, a locally made cut-to-size gun, and twenty-nine rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. They are currently in custody as investigations continue.
In another operation on July 14, 2024, police acting on credible intelligence arrested Abibu Haruna and Sanusi Haruna, who were found with a bag containing 55 iPhones, an HP laptop, two Android tablets, and 33 Android phones. The suspects admitted to purchasing the items from known armed robbers, Nasiru and Ghala, who transport stolen goods to Niger Republic. A manhunt for the fleeing robbers is ongoing.
On May 30, 2024, the command received intelligence about a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in the bush near Uwurghelli village, Agbarho. A swift police operation led to the recovery of three AK-49 rifles, two AK-47 rifles, and 207 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition. Efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects are underway.
Following an intelligence-led investigation, the police arrested three suspects on July 16, 2024, involved in manufacturing and supplying firearms to criminals. Tega Dierunaba, Chibiuke Anuforo Cosmas, and Sunday Moses Pam were apprehended and have admitted to their crimes, aiding further investigations.
On July 1, 2024, the police arrested Ismaila Umaru, who led them to two other gang members, Chede Mohammed and Mohammadu Sani. The suspects were involved in the kidnapping of a male victim from Adjakota, Ughelli South LGA. A subsequent raid on their hideout resulted in a gunfight, with one suspect sustaining fatal injuries. The police recovered an AK-49 rifle from the scene.
Since June, the Delta State Police Command has recovered 30 arms and 1,203 rounds of ammunition/cartridges, arrested 17 suspected kidnappers, and detained 15 suspected armed robbers.
Sp. Edafe Bright commended the resilience and professionalism of the Delta State Police operatives, urging them to maintain the momentum in their fight against crime. The command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in Delta State.