Rita Enemuru, Reporting
THE Delta State Police Command has announced a series of significant arrests in recent days, uncovering crimes ranging from child trafficking to the production of potentially lethal counterfeit alcohol and drug dealing.
In the most shocking case, a mother who falsely reported her two-month-old baby had been snatched during a robbery has been arrested for allegedly selling the infant.
Rita Ughale reported the incident at Ekpan Police Division on 15th December. However, suspicious inconsistencies in her story led to further interrogation, during which she confessed to staging the robbery and selling her child to a couple, Osas Omijie, 39, and Judith Omijie, 30, for N1.5 million.
The suspects were arrested, the infant was safely rescued, and all parties are now in custody as the investigation continues.
In a separate operation targeting public health risks, police arrested 67-year-old Lydia Osanebi in Ughelli on 14th December.
Acting on a search warrant, officers from the Eagle Net Special Squad raided her premises on 14th Street, Otor-Edor.
They discovered a large-scale fake drinks operation, recovering over 60 litres of suspected adulterated dry gin, dangerous chemicals including toxic methanol and formalin, and packaging materials for various branded spirits.
Osanebi allegedly confessed to running the counterfeiting operation for over two decades, repackaging her dangerous concoctions in recycled original bottles. Methanol is known to cause blindness, organ failure, and death.
Meanwhile, on 18th December, the CP–Special Assignment Team raided a residence in the Gana area of Sapele, arresting 44-year-old Felix Africa.
A search of the property yielded eight large bags of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp (cannabis). The suspect confessed to ownership and to dealing in the illicit substance.
The Police Public Relations Officer for Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, reiterated the force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The Command issued a stern warning to the public to desist from illegal activities and to avoid unregulated products, particularly suspicious alcohol.
Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities using the police control room number: 0803 668 4974.
All suspects are currently in custody as investigations into each case continue.
