The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on crime, arresting over 30 suspects involved in offenses such as robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and murder. In a press briefing held at the command’s headquarters in Asaba on Tuesday, the Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi, disclosed these developments while showcasing the recovery of 150 firearms, including 32 AK-47 rifles.

Among the suspects paraded was a young woman, Ms. Blessing Ibuku, who confessed to killing her 10-month-old son, Prevail Jonathan, by throwing him into a river due to the mockery she faced for his fatherless status. This shocking case was one of several highlighted during the briefing.

A Tragic Case of Infanticide

CP Olufemi recounted the events leading to Ibuku’s arrest. The infant, Prevail Jonathan, was reported missing on December 4, 2024. Following an extensive search, the baby’s lifeless body was discovered in the Aviara community river. Investigations revealed that Ibuku, the child’s mother, had thrown him into the river on November 31, 2024.

During interrogation, Ibuku admitted to committing the act due to the ridicule she faced from peers over her son’s fatherless status. “This is a heart-wrenching case that underscores the need for societal support for vulnerable individuals,” Olufemi remarked. The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.

Kidnapping Foiled Along DLA Road, Asaba

Another notable case involved a kidnapping incident along DLA Road in Asaba on November 27, 2024. Four armed men in a Toyota Camry (registration number BLF 490 AA) abducted a man and a woman, also stealing a Toyota Camry belonging to one of the victims.

The Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Crime Squad (SAKCCS), led by its commander, swiftly tracked the suspects to the Asaba-Benin Expressway. Although the victims were released unharmed, the suspects abandoned their vehicle and fled into the bush upon sighting police officers.

Inside the abandoned vehicle, the police recovered an AK-47 rifle with a defaced breach number, two pump-action guns, one magazine, eight rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and 21 live cartridges concealed under the engine.

Robbery Syndicates Busted

On December 2, 2024, SAKCCS operatives, in collaboration with the Rapid Response and Buffalo Squads, conducted a raid on a hideout behind Anioma Market in Asaba. The operation led to the arrest of ten suspects linked to a string of robberies in Asaba, Okpanam, and Issele-Uku. Several arms and ammunition were seized during the raid.

Ritual Killing Orchestrated by Native Doctor

Another grim revelation was the arrest of one Destiny Lawrence, who confessed to being hired by a native doctor named Jonah from Otolokpo community. Lawrence admitted to kidnapping a young boy for ₦30,000. He lured the victim to an uncompleted building, where Jonah allegedly killed the boy by slitting his throat. Both suspects are in custody as investigations progress.

Command’s Achievements

CP Olufemi provided a comprehensive report of the command’s accomplishments since his appointment as the 22nd Commissioner of Police in February 2024. Within this period:

• 678 suspects were arrested.
• 150 arms, including 32 AK-47 and AK-49 rifles, were recovered.
• Numerous criminal hideouts were raided, disrupting activities of cultists and armed robbers.

Call for Public Cooperation

The Commissioner expressed gratitude to other security agencies, community leaders, and residents for their cooperation, which has been instrumental in the successes recorded. He urged the public to remain vigilant and provide actionable information to law enforcement authorities.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of every resident in Delta State. However, we cannot achieve this alone. We call on the public to support our efforts by reporting suspicious activities promptly,” Olufemi said.

Moving Forward

The Delta State Police Command reiterated its dedication to combating crime and ensuring justice for victims. The command aims to build on these successes by strengthening intelligence-gathering, enhancing community policing, and fostering collaboration with stakeholders.

As the year draws to a close, residents are encouraged to prioritize safety and work with law enforcement to maintain peace and security in the state.