Police Bust Fraud Syndicate, Recover 1,600 Counterfeit Dollars; Arrest Two Drug Dealers in Delta

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Delta State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing crackdown on financial crimes and drug trafficking, following the arrest of suspected fraudsters and drug dealers in separate intelligence-led operations across the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the operations led to the recovery of 1,600 counterfeit United States dollar bills and large quantities of illicit drugs.

In the first operation on June 9, operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit, acting on credible intelligence, placed a suspected five-man fraud syndicate under surveillance over alleged activities involving the circulation of counterfeit U.S. currency.

The suspects were reportedly operating from a red unregistered Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV, which they used to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.

Four members of the syndicate — identified as Joshua Nwaosa, Daniel Arhewe, Prince Chukwuma, and John Egwuba — were arrested along Nnebisi Road in Asaba. During preliminary interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to operating from a hideout within the city.

Following their confession, operatives conducted a follow-up raid at the suspected base, where they recovered 1,600 counterfeit United States dollar notes as well as military camouflage items concealed within the premises. Police say investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the syndicate’s operations and possible collaborators.

In a separate operation on the same day at about 11:15 a.m., operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) stormed Owaliru and Alihame communities in Ika North-East Local Government Area following actionable intelligence on drug trafficking activities.

Two female suspects — Ifeoma Egbule (36) and Anayeokwu Florence (51) — were arrested in possession of suspected illicit substances including GH Gold, Colorado, Cannabis, and Canadian Loud. The substances were recovered and taken into custody alongside the suspects.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects were actively involved in the distribution of illegal drugs within the communities. Authorities say efforts are underway to track and apprehend other members of the drug network.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the operatives for their professionalism and dedication, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to sustained intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks across Delta State.

He assured residents of continued efforts to enhance public safety and security across the state.