Police Arrest 23 Suspects, Recover Stolen Trailer Truck, Seize Illicit Drugs in Delta

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Delta State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing anti-crime operations across the state, leading to the arrest of 23 suspects, the recovery of a stolen HOWO trailer truck, and the seizure of large quantities of suspected illicit drugs in separate coordinated operations.

The Command disclosed the developments in a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe.

According to the statement, operatives acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, carried out a major raid on identified criminal hideouts, brothels, and black spots within the Okpanam axis and Asaba metropolis on May 22, 2026.

The operation, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations alongside officers of the Department of Operations, Buffalo Team, and Okpanam patrol teams, targeted criminal locations around the Hausa Market area in Okpanam.

During the raid, twenty-two male suspects were arrested. Security operatives also recovered a large quantity of suspected illicit substances, including 72 bottles of CSC Codeine, 11 packets of Tramadol, quantities of Swinol, Canadian Loud, and weeds suspected to be Indian hemp.

Police authorities confirmed that the suspects and exhibits have been transferred to the Special Enquiry Unit (SEU) for profiling and further investigation, adding that suspects found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

In a separate development, operatives of Operation Safe Delta successfully recovered a stolen HOWO trailer truck following a petition alleging conspiracy, theft, and the snatching of the vehicle.

The stolen truck, bearing registration number KK/192 XA, was tracked to Ifite-Awka in Anambra State, where it was recovered and subsequently towed back to Asaba. Police said efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects connected to the crime.

Meanwhile, operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS) in Warri intercepted a tricycle during a stop-and-search operation along Esisi Road on May 22, 2026.

A search conducted on the vehicle led to the recovery of thirteen nylon bags containing substances suspected to be Indian hemp. A 57-year-old female suspect was arrested in connection with the drugs.

Investigators are currently working to determine the source and intended destination of the seized substances.

Reacting to the operational successes, the Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended officers involved in the operations and urged residents to continue supporting the police with credible and timely information.

He assured members of the public that all suspects found culpable would be brought to justice and encouraged residents to report suspicious activities through the Command Control Room via 08036684974.