Rita Enemuru, Reporting
WARRI — The Delta State Police Command has vehemently refuted claims circulating online that a suspect died while in custody at the Ekpan Police Station, dismissing the allegation as “false, misleading, and completely unfounded.”
In a press release issued on Saturday, the Command took aim at a publication by self-described activist Israel Joe, who had alleged an unnamed individual had died in police detention.
Police authorities have since labelled the account a deliberate attempt to undermine public confidence in ongoing security operations across the state.
According to the statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the claims have no basis in fact. “At no time did any suspect die in Police custody in Ekpan or any part of the state, as claimed,” the release read.
The controversy stems from a large-scale security operation conducted on March 25 and 26, 2026, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi. The coordinated raids targeted identified criminal hideouts in Ughelli and Warri, resulting in the arrest of more than 270 suspects, including alleged drug traffickers and wanted cultists. Large quantities of illicit substances were also seized.
Following the operation, the Command said all suspects were screened, with those found not to have a case to answer released unconditionally. The remaining individuals are said to be in custody and in good health. The Command stressed that “no casualty was recorded” during the exercise.
In unusually sharp language, the police warned against what it termed the reckless spread of misinformation, stating that such actions risk misleading the public and distracting from efforts to rid Delta State of criminal elements.
While acknowledging the role of civil engagement, the Command issued a firm warning to bloggers and self-styled activists. “Any individual found publishing or circulating false information against the Police will be investigated, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed that the Command remains committed to its constitutional duty of protecting lives and property, urging residents to rely on official channels for accurate information.
Members of the public have been advised to disregard the original publication.
