The Delta State Police Command has secured the conviction of sixteen men for offences ranging from criminal conspiracy and theft of government property to malicious damage and unlawful possession of prohibited drugs.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the development, stating that the convictions underscore the Command’s determination to enforce the law and ensure that individuals involved in the destruction and theft of public assets are brought to justice.

According to the police, the suspects were convicted on July 15, 2026, by Magistrate Court 3 sitting in Asaba. The court sentenced each of the defendants to three years imprisonment at the Ogwashi-Uku Correctional Centre after finding them guilty of multiple offences.

The convicts were prosecuted for criminal conspiracy, theft of iron rods belonging to the Delta State Government, and wilful and malicious damage to government property, offences contrary to the Criminal Code Law of Delta State.

 They were also found guilty of unlawful possession of twenty cups of Colorado, popularly known as “Kolos,” a prohibited substance under the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Act.

Those convicted are Yaro Abdul, 25; Mohammed Isah, 31; Hassan Jato, 23; Azeez Bello, 18; Duru Lawrence, 27; Tijani Hassan, 23; Muasu Alabo, 27; Lawal Zardi, 18; Gambo Abdul, 18; Ali Musa, 21; Musa Abdul, 18; Umuru Kasa, 19; Gaga Amos, 25; Sani Garuba, 18; Hanza Garuba, 24; and Abdul Ahi Jubrin, 18.

Reacting to the judgment, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended officers involved in the investigation and prosecution of the case, describing the convictions as a strong warning to individuals engaged in vandalism, theft of public assets and drug-related crimes.

The police commissioner stressed that the successful prosecution demonstrates the Command’s commitment to ensuring accountability and preserving critical government infrastructure across the state.

He reiterated that the Command would continue to deploy intelligence-driven policing strategies and strengthen operations aimed at protecting public property, curbing criminality and maintaining peace and order in Delta State.

The boss said the conviction is expected to serve as a deterrent to criminal elements targeting government facilities and infrastructure, particularly the theft and vandalism of public assets across the State.