The Delta State Police Command has recorded major breakthroughs in its ongoing onslaught against crime, with the arrest of a notorious drug dealer and a suspect caught conveying 400 live cartridges concealed in a commercial bus.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on Sunday, the Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, said the operations were a result of sustained intelligence-led policing and proactive surveillance across the State.
According to the statement, on October 16, 2025, at about 12:00 p.m., operatives attached to ‘C’ Division, Asaba, led by CSP Ogbe Emmanuel, intercepted a Toyota Hiace Hummer Bus with registration number NGK 16 XB during a stop-and-search operation at the Head Bridge, Asaba.
The driver, identified as Ozoemenam Sylvanus, reportedly appeared nervous during questioning, prompting officers to conduct a detailed search of the vehicle. The search led to the discovery of 400 live cartridges carefully concealed within the bus.
“The suspect initially lied that the parcel contained padlocks but was dumbfounded when officers uncovered the ammunition,” the statement noted.
The suspect was immediately arrested, and both he and the exhibit were taken into custody. The police have since launched an investigation to uncover the source of the ammunition and the criminal network behind the illegal arms movement.
In a separate development, operatives of the Orerokpe Division, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended a suspected drug baron, Onos Afokoghene, aged 37, known for distributing hard drugs in Warri and nearby communities.
The operation, led by the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Paul Oboware, took place on October 10, 2025, at about 8:45 p.m. in Jeddo community. Upon sighting the police, the suspect and his gang reportedly attempted to flee, but Afokoghene was captured after a brief chase.
Items recovered from the scene included 3kg of Canadian Loud, 10kg of Indian Hemp, 24 litres of “monkey tail” (weed soaked in dry gin), several sachets of Tramadol of varying strengths, and two POS machines believed to have been used for drug transactions.
While commending the professionalism of the officers involved, CP Abaniwonda reaffirmed his administration’s zero tolerance for crime and criminality in Delta State.
He urged residents to continue cooperating with the Police by providing credible information that could aid ongoing security efforts.
“The safety and security of residents remain our utmost priority. We encourage all law-abiding citizens to stay vigilant and report suspicious persons or activities through the Command’s dedicated distress line: 08036684974,” the Commissioner stated.
