The Delta State Police Command has dismissed a viral social media report alleging that a suspect died in police custody at Ekpan Police Station, describing the claim as false and misleading.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said the allegation circulated by a self-acclaimed activist, Israel Joe was baseless and aimed at discrediting the command’s efforts to tackle crime.
“The report is completely unfounded and an attempt to undermine the effort the command is putting to reduce crime in the state,” he said.
The viral post had claimed that “one of the innocent sick persons arrested… has reportedly died in Ekpan police custody,” while also accusing the police of misconduct and calling for protests.
However, the command firmly denied the allegation, stating that no such incident occurred.
“At no time did any suspect die in Police custody in Ekpan or any part of the state, as claimed. No casualty was recorded,” the statement added.
Providing clarification, the police explained that the operation referenced in the report was a coordinated raid carried out on March 25 and 26, 2026, targeting criminal hideouts across parts of the state.
According to the command, the exercise was led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, and resulted in the arrest of over 270 suspects in Ughelli and Warri.
The police said those arrested included suspected drug traffickers and wanted cultists, while significant quantities of illicit drugs were also recovered during the operation.
It further stated that all suspects underwent proper screening, with individuals found not culpable released, while others remain in custody.
“All suspects are in good condition,” the command said.
The police described the circulation of the report as reckless and warned that such misinformation could mislead the public and undermine trust in law enforcement agencies.
“The publication is capable of misleading the public, undermining confidence in law enforcement, and distracting ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements,” the statement noted.
The command also warned that individuals responsible for spreading false information would be investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the Commissioner of Police urged residents to disregard the claim and rely on verified sources for accurate information.
