The Delta State Police Command has executed a massive sweep against criminal elements during the critical ‘Ember months’, culminating in the arrest of 627 suspected criminals and the recovery of a significant arsenal of weapons and illicit funds.
Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi, announced the breakthrough on Monday while parading the suspects at the Command Headquarters in Asaba. He provided a detailed breakdown of those apprehended, stating that the suspects included 140 armed robbers, 113 kidnap suspects, 125 murder suspects, 187 cultists, and 62 rape/defilement suspects.
The operations yielded a substantial cache of arms aimed at crippling violent crime in the state. A total of 144 assorted firearms were recovered, comprising 27 AK-47/49 rifles, 25 Beretta pistols, 36 pump-action guns, and 56 single-barrel/cut-to-size guns.
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Furthermore, the police successfully retrieved N36 million in ransom money from criminal syndicates and rescued 18 kidnapping victims. The tactical teams also recovered 28 stolen vehicles and seized 6,930 rounds of ammunition and cartridges, significantly weakening the operational capacity of criminal gangs across the state.
CP Olufemi highlighted specific intelligence-led raids that yielded high arrest figures. In Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area, operatives of the Buffalo Tactical Teams stormed a notorious hideout used for the sale and distribution of illicit drugs, arresting 161 suspects (110 males and 51 females). The raid led to the recovery of dangerous substances including Nigeria Loud, Canadian Loud, CSC Codeine, Ice, and 200mg tramadol sachets.
In a separate operation on December 13, 2025, the Buffalo Team intercepted a commercial bus on the Asaba–Onitsha route. This interdiction resulted in the recovery of 109 bottles of codeine and several cartons of tramadol, with suspects promptly arrested. Investigations into these drug networks are currently ongoing.
Commending his officers for their dedication, CP Olufemi assured Delta residents that these intelligence-driven operations would continue aggressively to rid the state of criminals and ensure a safe Yuletide season for all law-abiding citizens. He also expressed appreciation for the media’s role in responsible reporting and their partnership in enhancing public safety.
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