Crackdown in Delta: Over 100 Crime Suspects Arrested, 13 Kidnap Victims Rescued in Security Sweep

The Delta State Police Command has made a major breakthrough in its fight against crime, arresting over 106 suspects and rescuing 13 kidnapped victims in a string of high-impact operations carried out across the state in the first quarter of 2025.

In a decisive move against rising insecurity, the Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on criminal activities, leading to the arrest of over 106 suspects linked to crimes ranging from armed robbery and kidnapping to murder, cultism, and sexual offences.

Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, disclosed these figures during the Command’s first-quarter press briefing held Wednesday at the Police Headquarters in Asaba.

Breaking down the statistics, CP Abaniwonda revealed that the arrests include 35 armed robbery suspects, 24 alleged kidnappers, 21 murder suspects, 22 cultists, and 4 persons connected to rape and defilement cases.

“These successes are a direct result of our strategic, intelligence-led policing and robust community engagement,” the CP stated. “We are committed to restoring and maintaining public safety across all zones in the state.”

Beyond arrests, the Command also recorded impressive seizures. A total of 53 firearms were recovered, including 11 AK-47 rifles, a G-3 rifle, 9 Beretta pistols, 13 pump-action guns, and 19 locally fabricated weapons. In addition, 5,612 rounds of ammunition and cartridges of various calibers were retrieved in multiple operations.

Among the high points of the quarter was the neutralization of a deadly kidnapping syndicate terrorizing residents of Ogwashi-Uku, Ibusa, Issele-Uku, Ubulu-Uku, and surrounding communities. The gang was dismantled during a fierce gun battle with operatives, a major relief to affected communities.

The Command also rescued 13 kidnapped victims, reuniting them safely with their families, and recovered 14 suspected stolen vehicles during raids.

In its ongoing fight against drug abuse and trafficking, police operatives also confiscated large quantities of illicit drugs and substances, which the CP described as a growing threat to youth and communal safety.

CP Abaniwonda expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Delta State Government, and allied security agencies for their continued support. He also applauded the vigilance of local communities and emphasized the critical role of public collaboration in effective policing.

“Security is everyone’s business,” the Commissioner stressed. “If you see something, say something. The cooperation of residents has been vital in achieving these milestones.”

He urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious movements or persons to the nearest police station or reach out via the Command’s control room numbers: 08036684974, 08114895600, and 08025666914.