The Delta State Police Command has said it recovered 144 arms, including AK-47/AK-49 rifles, Beretta pistols, single barrel/cut-to-size and pump action guns from suspects from January to December 2025.
The Commissioner of Police in the Command, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, who disclosed this while briefing newsmen at the Police Headquarters in Asaba, said a total of 6,930 ammunition and cartridges were also recovered during the period.
He stated that the Command adopted a proactive, intelligence-driven and community-centred policing strategy, worked with sister security agencies and community stakeholders, including Vigilante, Anti-cult volunteers, PCRC, CSOs, traditional rulers, amongst others, to sustain targeted operations against criminal networks.
The CP revealed that 125 murder suspects, including 2 prime in the killing of retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu at her Asaba residence on 24th November, were arrested, adding that 140 suspected armed robbers, 113 kidnappers, 187 cultists, and 62 others suspected of rape/defilement were also nabbed, bringing the total number of suspects in Police net to 627.
According to him, 18 kidnapped victims were rescued, 28 vehicles and N36 million ransom recovered.
CP Abaniwonda said the Command cracked down on drug activities and arrested 161 suspects. “On 10th December 2025 at about 2130hrs, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations led a formidable contingent of policemen drawn from the Buffalo Tactical Teams to Agbor, Ika South LGA, Delta State, where they conducted a decisive raid on a hideout known for notorious sales and distribution of illicit drugs.
“The intelligence-driven operation resulted in the arrest of one hundred and sixty-one (161) suspects, comprising one hundred and ten (110) males and fifty-one (51) females. A large quantity of illicit drugs was recovered from the hideout, including: Nigeria Loud, Canadian Loud, CSC Codeine, Ice, sachets of 200mm of Tramadol.
“Similarly on 13th of December 2025, operatives of Bufallo intercepted Asaba-Onitsha bus at the bridge head, Asaba, and subjected it to a search during which one hundred and nine (109) bottles of codeine, and cartons of tramadol were recovered and the suspects were promptly arrested. Investigation is ongoing.
“In conclusion, I commend the officers and men of the Delta State Police Command for their dedication, professionalism, and sacrifice in the discharge of their duties. I also sincerely commend members of the press and media organizations for their professionalism, responsible reportage, and continued partnership with the Police throughout the year.
“Your role in timely, accurate information dissemination has greatly enhanced public awareness and supported our crime-prevention efforts. I equally appreciate the cooperation of law-abiding citizens, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
“As we approach the Yuletide and festive season, I urge members of the public to remain vigilant and law-abiding, and to support the Police with credible information. The Delta State Police Command remains fully prepared to ensure a safe, peaceful, and secure festive period for all”.
The Command released the following emergency control phone numbers:
– 08036684974
– 08114895600
– 08025666914
New Hands on Deck as Delta Targets Durable Roads under Oborevwori