Rita Enemuru, Reporting
POLICE in Delta State have arrested 23 suspects and seized a substantial haul of illicit drugs following a series of targeted operations across the region, the command announced today.
Acting on the orders of Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi, the Deputy Commissioner leading operations co-ordinated raids on black spots, criminal hideouts and brothels in the Okpanam area and Asaba metropolis on 22nd May.
During the operation, officers from the Department of Operations, the Buffalo Team and local patrol units swooped on locations around Hausa Market in Okpanam, where 22 male suspects were detained. Officers recovered 72 bottles of CSC Codeine, 11 packets of Tramadol, and quantities of Swinol, Canadian Loud, and what is believed to be cannabis.
All suspects and exhibits have been transferred to the Special Enquiry Unit for profiling and further investigation. Those found culpable will face prosecution, police said.
In a separate operation, operatives from Operation Safe Delta tracked down and recovered a stolen HOWO trailer truck – registration number KK/192 XA – at Ifite-Awka in Anambra State. The vehicle has since been towed to Asaba, and efforts are continuing to apprehend fleeing suspects.
Meanwhile, the Quick Response Squad in Warri intercepted a tricycle during a stop-and-search along Esisi Road on the same day. A search of the vehicle uncovered 13 nylon bags containing substances suspected to be cannabis. A 57-year-old woman was arrested in connection with the find. An investigation is under way to establish the source of the drugs and their intended destination.
Commissioner Oyeniyi urged residents to continue supporting the police with credible intelligence, assuring the public that all culpable suspects would be brought to justice. He encouraged anyone with information on suspicious activity to contact the command’s control room on 08036684974.
“These successes demonstrate our unwavering commitment to tackling crime head-on,” the Commissioner said in a statement released by police spokesperson Bright Edafe.
