Delta State Police Command said it arrested over 678 suspected armed robbers, kidnappers, cultists, rapists and murderers over a period of time. Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, told the periodic Inspector General of Police (IGP) conference in Abuja:
In this season of Yuletide and New Year, the command ordered massive deployment of personnel to provide adequate security before, during and after the celebration.
“Area commanders, DPOs and tactical team were directed to identify and deploy men in all flashpoints various and resort centres to prevent mischief makers from showing their ugly faces and causing any form of mayhem to law abiding citizens.
“The command has banned use, sale and display of pyrotechnics including fireworks and firecrackers known as knockouts and bangers. Parents and guardians are advised to caution their children and wards to desist from using these items.
“In 2024 , the command arrested 130 suspected armed robbers, 88 kidnap suspects, 76 murder suspects, 329 suspected cultists, 54 rape/defilement suspects, 150 firearms including 32 AK47 rifles, 27 Berretta pistol, 72 single barrel locally made cut to size guns and 5,042 rounds of ammunition and cartridges. The arrested suspects were charged to court while others are under investigation.
“The Anti-Kidnapping Squard, Cyber Crime Squad and Buffalo Squad burst into the hideout of suspected armed robbers in Anioma Market, Asaba, and recovered one beret-ta pistol, double barrel gun and locally made cut to size gun. The suspects were responsible for series of house breaks in Asaba, Okpanam and Isselu–Uku.
“The B Division, Asaba, arrested two suspected armed robbers. Also the Oleh Police Division arrested another suspect who allegedly defiled a physically impaired victim.
“The Police Division Ekpan and officers in state Criminal Investigation Department (CID), arrested four suspected murderers and recovered the deceased thrown into a river while the herbalist took the head of the deceased and buried him at his shrine in Otokutu.”
Meanwhile, The deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations, Aina Adesina, organised Operation Show of Force to send strong signal to criminals to stay away from the state, ensuring a hitch-free Yuletide and New Year.