The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of a 15-year-old boy, Gift Oberhirhi, after allegedly ingesting 15 tablets of Dexamethasone, a controlled medication without prescription.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Superintendent of Police (SP) Bright Edafe, who confirmed the development, said the drug was reportedly provided by his friend, Destiny Akpofure, also 15 years old, in Orogun community of the state.

Edafe said the teenager fell critically ill shortly after consuming the tablets and died while being rushed to the hospital for medical attention.

He said that the police responded swiftly by evacuating the body to the General Hospital Mortuary in Orogun for autopsy, and the suspect is currently in police custody, promising a thorough investigation of the matter.

According to him, the Command is concerned about the escalation of drug menace with intelligence-led operations targeting drug dens, black-spots and criminal hideouts across the state.

The move, Edafe said, was part of a broader effort to dismantle illicit drug networks, prevent avoidable deaths, and curb rising crimes linked to substance abuse, including cultism and violent offences.

He, however, reiterated the Command’s commitment to tackling the menace, assuring residents that decisive measures are being implemented to disrupt illegal drug distribution networks.

Edafe also called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities in the state.