Police Arrest 43 as New Year Eve Celebrations Turn Violent in Asaba

By Diafa Doubra, Warri 

The Delta State Police Command has arrested no fewer than 43 suspects following a coordinated clampdown on hoodlums and criminal elements who attempted to disrupt New Year Eve celebrations across parts of Asaba, the state capital. The swift intervention by security operatives helped restore calm and prevented what could have escalated into widespread violence during the early hours of January 1, 2026.

According to the Police, the operation commenced at about 12:00 a.m. when a robust township patrol was launched across strategic locations in Asaba. The patrol was led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations and involved Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders, and their teams. The deployment was aimed at ensuring the safety of residents and commuters as crowds poured into the streets to usher in the New Year.

However, the celebrations were marred by the actions of miscreants and touts who exploited the festive atmosphere to engage in acts of lawlessness. The suspects reportedly blocked major roads, carried out illegal car races, and drove recklessly, knocking down some commuters in the process. Others were said to have thrown fireworks at unsuspecting members of the public, creating panic and causing widespread disturbance. The situation deteriorated further when the hoodlums allegedly attacked police patrol teams with stones and other dangerous objects, while also setting tyres ablaze at key junctions, deliberately obstructing free movement, particularly for worshippers returning from crossover church services.

In response, police operatives acted swiftly, deploying lawful crowd control measures to disperse the violent mob and restore order. The operation led to the arrest of 43 suspects, while several exhibits were recovered, including 25 motor vehicles, eight tricycles, fireworks, various hard drugs, and other dangerous offensive weapons. The suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue, after which those found culpable will be charged to court.

The Delta State Police Command strongly condemned the reckless and criminal behaviour, warning that any attempt to hijack festive periods to foment violence, obstruct public roads, or attack security personnel would be met with firm and lawful resistance. The Command confirmed that normalcy has since been fully restored across Asaba, with intensified patrols and continuous monitoring in place to prevent any further breach of the peace.

Reassuring residents of its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the Police urged members of the public to celebrate responsibly, obey traffic and public safety laws, and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.