The Delta State Police Command has showcased significant strides in its fight against crime by parading over 30 suspects linked to crimes including armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and murder. The command also announced the recovery of 150 firearms, including 32 AK-47 rifles, during operations conducted across the state.
Commissioner of Police Highlights Achievements
While briefing journalists at the command’s headquarters in Asaba on Tuesday, the state’s Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi, shared updates on the progress made since he assumed office as the 22nd Commissioner of Police in February 2024.
“These suspects were arrested over the past month,” Olufemi said. “While we have faced challenges, the support of other security agencies, stakeholders, and the good people of Delta State has enabled us to restore peace to a reasonable extent.”
The commissioner commended his officers for their dedication and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling security issues within the state.
Case of 10-Month-Old Baby Highlights Tragic Realities
One of the most harrowing cases detailed during the briefing involved the tragic death of a 10-month-old baby, Prevail Jonathan. The infant, who was reported missing on December 4, 2024, was later found dead in the Aviara community river.
During the investigation, police discovered that the baby’s mother, Blessing Ibuku, had thrown her child into the river on November 31, 2024. According to her confession, she acted out of despair after enduring ridicule from friends who mocked her for having a fatherless child.
The commissioner expressed deep regret over the incident, noting that the suspect is currently in police custody while investigations continue.
Kidnapping Incident on DLA Road Thwarted
On November 27, 2024, the command responded to a distress call regarding a kidnapping incident along DLA Road in Asaba. Four armed suspects operating in a Toyota Camry with registration number BLF 490 AA abducted a man and a woman and made away with another Toyota Camry belonging to one of the victims.
The Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Crime Squad (SAKCCS), led by its commander, quickly tracked the suspects to the Asaba-Benin Expressway. Although the kidnappers had released the victims, they abandoned their operational vehicle upon spotting the police and fled into a nearby bush.
Recovered from the vehicle were 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 hidden under the vehicle’s engine.
Raid at Anioma Market Leads to Multiple Arrests
In a related operation on December 2, 2024, operatives from the SAKCCS, in collaboration with the Rapid Response Squad and Buffalo Squad, raided a hideout behind Anioma Market in Asaba. The raid led to the arrest of ten suspects believed to be behind a series of robberies in Asaba, Okpanam, and Issele-Uku. Several firearms and other incriminating items were recovered during the operation.
Horrific Murder of a Young Boy
The commissioner also disclosed the arrest of a suspect, Destiny Lawrence, who admitted to being hired by a native doctor, Jonah, from Otolokpo community, to kidnap a young boy for a fee of N30,000.
Lawrence confessed to luring the boy to an uncompleted building, where the native doctor reportedly killed him by slitting his throat. This chilling revelation highlights the depths of criminal activities in the state, and the command has vowed to bring all perpetrators to justice.
Command’s Performance Scorecard
Providing a comprehensive overview of the command’s achievements, CP Olufemi revealed that a total of 678 suspects were arrested within the review period. In addition to the 150 firearms recovered, including 32 AK-47 and AK-49 rifles, several stolen vehicles and other contraband items were also seized.
“This success is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our officers,” Olufemi stated. “We remain dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Delta State.”
Call for Public Cooperation
CP Olufemi urged the public to continue providing actionable information to assist the police in their fight against crime. He emphasized that the support of the community is crucial to maintaining peace and security in the state.
“As we strive to protect lives and property, we need the active participation of residents. Report suspicious activities promptly and work with us to make Delta State safer for everyone,” he appealed.
Reinforcing the Fight Against Crime
The commissioner reaffirmed the Delta State Police Command’s commitment to ensuring justice for victims of crime while curbing the activities of criminals. He acknowledged the challenges faced by his officers but reiterated the command’s resolve to overcome them and build a more secure environment for all.
With these strides, the Delta State Police Command continues to demonstrate its determination to combat crime and uphold law and order across the state.
