Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested 81 suspected criminals during coordinated intelligence-driven raids on identified crime hotspots across the Asaba metropolis.
The Punch reported that the command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists in Warri on Saturday.
According to Edafe, the operation was conducted on July 24, 2026, as part of the command’s ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal activities, dismantle criminal networks and prevent offenders from operating freely within the state.
He explained that the exercise was led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Department of Operations, supported by the command’s tactical units.
The statement read in part, “Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives raided identified criminal flashpoints, leading to the arrest of 81 suspects comprising 50 males and 31 females.
“The suspects were apprehended for offences including the sale and possession of suspected illicit drugs and the establishment of an illegal checkpoint at the Asaba-Onitsha Head Bridge.
“Exhibits recovered during the operation include large quantities of Tramadol and substances suspected to be Indian hemp.
“The enforcement exercise also resulted in the impoundment of five vehicles for various violations, including operating an unauthorised taxi park at Pinnacle Junction along Okpanam Road and facilitating the sale and distribution of suspected illicit drugs within the area.
“The suspects and exhibits remain in police custody as investigations continue.”
The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reiterated the command’s commitment to intelligence-based policing and sustained efforts to curb crime across the state.
He also warned those engaged in criminal activities to abandon such acts or be prepared to face the full weight of the law.
