The Delta State Police Command has recorded a string of major breakthroughs in its intensified crackdown on violent crime, recovering multiple illegal firearms and foiling a robbery attempt in separate operations across the state.
In one of the most significant busts, operatives uncovered a suspected gang armoury along the Sapele–Warri corridor following the interrogation of a 25-year-old suspect, Dafiaga Timothy. The suspect, handed over by the Ororokpe Division and believed to be part of a syndicate terrorising commuters on the Warri–Sapele Road, led police to a concealed weapons cache in the Adheje axis.
A search of the hideout yielded a locally made long gun, a cut-to-size firearm, and a fabricated Beretta-style pistol loaded with five rounds of live ammunition. Officers also recovered ten live cartridges and a dagger. Police say the seizure has dealt a significant blow to the group’s operational strength, with investigations ongoing to apprehend other members of the network.
In a separate operation on the Agbarho/Warri Expressway, patrol teams from Area Command Warri intercepted a tricycle conveying three occupants during an early morning patrol. Two suspects fled into the bush, but the driver, identified as 25-year-old Aliyu Sabo, was arrested. A search of the vehicle uncovered a locally fabricated pistol, one live cartridge, and one expended round, alongside mobile phones and other personal items suspected to be linked to criminal activity.
Meanwhile, swift police response also thwarted a hostel robbery attempt in Agbor. Acting on a distress call at about 4:00 a.m., the Divisional Police Officer of Agbor Division, CSP Micheal Obekpa, led an anti-crime patrol to Texas Lodge Hostel in Alihame Community. The suspects fled upon sighting the approaching patrol team, abandoning a locally fabricated pistol and an expended cartridge. Officers also recovered three mobile phones and other accessories believed to belong to the fleeing suspects or victims.
Reacting to the operations, Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, commended the officers for their professionalism and vigilance, stressing the Command’s resolve to dismantle criminal networks and rid the state of illegal arms.
“The Command remains resolute in mopping up illegal firearms and ensuring perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice,” he stated, while urging residents to remain security conscious and continue providing credible information to aid law enforcement.
Police authorities say coordinated efforts are ongoing to track down fleeing suspects and expand intelligence-led operations aimed at strengthening safety across Delta State.
