Abraka Residents Celebrate Neutralization of Suspected Fulani Herdsmen-Turned Kidnappers

The University town, Abraka, in Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State, was agog in celebration on Wednesday, following a successful operation by the Divisional Police Headquarters, which left four suspected Fulani herdsmen, believed to have been terrorising residents of the community, dead.

The operation, which came on the heels of a recent protest by indigenes of Abraka over incessant attacks and insecurity in the area, led to the arrest of several other suspects currently assisting security operatives with useful information, while some escaped with bullet wounds.

According to credible sources, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Abraka mobilized his gallant officers, local hunters, vigilante groups and anti-cult volunteers for the coordinated offensive immediately after the protest. 

The swift intervention was said to have restored calm and confidence among residents, many of whom had deserted their farms and homes due to fear of attacks.

In reaction to allegations made by one Mr. Harrison on social media, claiming that two innocent persons were killed during the operation and accusing security agencies of inaction, authorities have called for caution and responsible commentary from members of the public.

A statement from a senior security officer involved in the operation clarified that Operation Delta Sweep was a joint task force initiative involving 19 vehicles, distributed among various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, NDLEA, and the NSCDC.

Out of the 19 operational vehicles, eight were deployed to Ughelli, while two each were assigned to Orerokpe and the Sapele axis. 

The officer stressed that all operations were conducted professionally and within the bounds of the law, with no innocent live lost.

Authorities have urged critics to verify facts before making public statements capable of misleading the public and undermining the efforts of security operatives working tirelessly to maintain peace and order in the state.

Residents of Abraka have since expressed appreciation to the security agencies for their prompt response, noting that the operation has restored relative peace to the once-troubled community.