Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested 81 suspected criminals during coordinated intelligence-led raids across identified crime hotspots in the Asaba metropolis.

The operation, conducted on July 24, 2026, was part of the command’s ongoing efforts to disrupt criminal activities and eliminate safe havens for offenders throughout the state.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, and made available to journalists in Warri.

According to Edafe, the exercise was led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Department of Operations, working alongside the command’s tactical units.

Drugs, Illegal Checkpoint Among Offences

The police spokesperson said the raids were carried out based on credible intelligence, resulting in the arrest of 81 suspects made up of 50 men and 31 women.

“The suspects were apprehended for offences including the sale and possession of suspected illicit drugs and the establishment of an illegal checkpoint at the Asaba-Onitsha Head Bridge,” the statement said.

Police also recovered large quantities of Tramadol and substances suspected to be Indian hemp during the operation.

In addition, officers impounded five vehicles for various offences, including operating an unauthorised taxi park at Pinnacle Junction along Okpanam Road and facilitating the sale and distribution of suspected illicit drugs in the area.

Edafe said all suspects, along with the recovered exhibits, remain in police custody while investigations continue.

Police Commissioner Issues Warning to Criminals

Reacting to the operation, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reiterated the command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and proactive crime prevention across the state.

He also warned individuals involved in criminal activities to abandon such acts or face the full weight of the law.