Delta Police Record Major Breakthroughs, Arrest Kidnappers, Robbers, Traffickers in Q1 Operations

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Delta State Police Command has announced significant operational successes in its first-quarter crime-fighting efforts, highlighting major arrests, rescue operations, and recovery of arms and illicit substances across the state.

Addressing journalists during a press briefing in Asaba, the Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, said the Command has intensified intelligence-driven policing strategies, making the state increasingly hostile for criminal elements.

According to the police chief, the Command recorded notable achievements in tackling kidnapping, armed robbery, human trafficking, and drug-related crimes between February and April 2026.

Crackdown on Kidnapping Syndicates

The Commissioner disclosed that several suspected kidnappers were apprehended in separate operations across the state. On April 24, operatives arrested two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate terrorising commuters along the Ughelli–Warri Road. The suspects were apprehended in Ughelli and along the Warri–Sapele Road, with an AK-47 rifle and 36 rounds of live ammunition recovered.

In another coordinated operation on April 9, police operatives, in collaboration with the military, rescued two kidnapped victims during a gun duel with suspected kidnappers along the Obulu-Uku axis. Three members of the gang were neutralised, while officers recovered an AK-47 rifle, 19 rounds of ammunition, and ₦4.5 million believed to be ransom proceeds. The victims were safely reunited with their families.

Similarly, a March 16 operation in Issele-Uku led to the rescue of three kidnapped victims following a joint effort involving the police, military, local vigilantes, and hunters. One suspect was fatally wounded, and an AK-47 rifle was recovered.

Arrest of Armed Robbery Suspects

In efforts to curb robbery incidents in Asaba and surrounding areas, the Command arrested two suspects linked to a string of burglaries and armed robberies. The suspects were apprehended in Imo State during a stop-and-search operation, in possession of stolen phones and laptops traced to victims in Delta State.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects operated a network that transported stolen goods across state lines for resale. Police authorities confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.

Human Trafficking and Organ Harvesting Case

The Command also uncovered a disturbing case of human trafficking and organ harvesting. Two suspects were arrested following a report involving a 19-year-old victim from Uvwie, who was trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire under the pretense of prostitution.

Investigations revealed that the victim was subjected to a medical procedure without consent, resulting in the removal of her womb. She was later abandoned in Lagos before finding her way back to Delta State. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further inquiry, with the suspects currently in custody.

Drug Interception and Anti-Narcotics Operations

In its ongoing fight against drug trafficking, the Command intercepted hard drugs concealed in unusual items. On April 13, operatives of the Safer Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle along the Onicha-Ugbo/Ewohimi Road and discovered substances suspected to be cocaine hidden inside energy-saving bulbs.

Recovered exhibits included approximately 490 grams of suspected cocaine and smaller quantities of cannabis products. Police said the drugs were being transported to Abuja for distribution, adding that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other suspects linked to the operation.

Prosecution and Justice Delivery

The Commissioner further revealed that between January and April 2026, the Command charged 455 cases to court, successfully prosecuting 205, while 250 cases remain ongoing across courts in the state’s 25 local government areas.

Commitment to Security and Rule of Law

CP Oyeniyi reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability, warning that officers found wanting would face strict disciplinary action.

He also raised concerns over rising drug abuse and vowed to intensify efforts to dismantle drug networks. On land-related disputes, the Commissioner cautioned against violence and advised aggrieved parties to seek legal redress, stressing that the police would not tolerate any breakdown of law and order.

The police chief appreciated the support of the Inspector General of Police, the Delta State Government, security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and residents, urging continued collaboration through credible information sharing.

Residents were encouraged to contact the Command through its emergency lines to support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security across Delta State.