The Delta State Police Command has recorded significant operational breakthroughs in its renewed offensive against violent crime and drug trafficking, arresting 12 suspects and recovering a large cache of weapons and hard drugs in two separate intelligence-led operations across the state.

The arrests, which occurred between January 20 and 22, 2026, highlight growing security concerns over the movement of armed groups and the entrenchment of organised drug networks within communities, even as the police intensify stop-and-search operations and targeted raids.

According to the command’s spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, operatives of the Buffalo Patrol Team intercepted a green Toyota Sienna at about 4:10 pm on January 22 while conducting routine stop-and-search duties at the Head Bridge boundary between Anambra and Delta States.

Edafe stated that the vehicle, reportedly travelling from Anambra into Delta State, had occupants all dressed in mufti, who claimed they were in Delta to welcome a visiting religious leader. However, a thorough search revealed otherwise.

“Hidden inside was an assortment of dangerous weapons, including three pump-action guns, one locally fabricated dane gun, a battle axe and 26 live cartridges,” he revealed.

The police image maker named the suspects arrested in connection with the arms seizure as Nwanlioba Ikechukwu Dominic (62), Agbata Mathew (35), Osita Chineye (39), Favour Peterson (23), Prince Tochukwu (32) and Clement Nwakwa (51).

He added that the suspects were taken into custody for interrogation, as investigators work to determine their mission, possible sponsors and links to criminal networks operating within and beyond Delta State.

In a related development, SP Edafe stated that the police also dismantled what he described as an organised drug syndicate operating within Ugborikoko community.

He said the operation was carried out on January 20 at about 10:00 a.m. by operatives of the Ugborikoko Division under the supervision of the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Setemi Agbede-Zoukumor, following credible and actionable intelligence.

“A suspected drug dealer was initially arrested, but in a dramatic twist, the suspect reportedly volunteered crucial information that led to the swift arrest of six additional suspects believed to be central figures in the drug supply chain.

“Those arrested were identified as Daniel Ojukwu, Rose Otofi, Osaro Okosu, Maro Ibecham, Fregene Victory and Kevwe Irimoni.

“Searches conducted at their residences yielded a large quantity of illicit drugs and processing tools, including 52 packs of GM Gold Indian hemp, one pack of Canadian loud, 40 packs of Kolorado, 16 sachets of Swinol, 30 tablets of Tramadol, 52 packs of loud and two crushers allegedly used for drug processing and resale,” he explained.

Edafe said investigations into both cases are ongoing and assured residents that all suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.