The Delta State Police Command has arrested 22 suspects and recovered large quantities of suspected illicit drugs during coordinated raids on criminal hideouts and black spots in Asaba and surrounding areas.

The operation, conducted on May 22, 2026, followed a directive by the Commissioner of Police in Delta State.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations reportedly led operatives from the Department of Operations, Buffalo Team and Okpanam patrol teams on raids targeting identified criminal hideouts, brothels and black spots within the Okpanam axis and Asaba metropolis.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed that the operation focused heavily on areas around the Hausa Market in Okpanam, where 22 male suspects were arrested during the raid.

According to him, exhibits recovered from the suspects included 72 bottles of CSC Codeine, 11 packets of Tramadol, quantities of Swinol, substances identified as Canadian Loud and weeds suspected to be Indian hemp.

He said the recovered exhibits had been transferred to the Special Enquiry Unit (SEU) for profiling and further investigation, adding that those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

In a separate operation, operatives of Operation Safe Delta reportedly recovered a stolen HOWO trailer truck following a petition alleging trailer snatching, stealing and conspiracy.

Edafe said the truck, bearing registration number KK/192 XA, was tracked and recovered at Ifite-Awka in Anambra State. The vehicle has since been towed back to Asaba, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend fleeing suspects linked to the theft.

Meanwhile, operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS) in Warri also recorded a breakthrough during a stop-and-search operation conducted along Esisi Road on the same day.

During the operation, officers intercepted a tricycle and recovered 13 nylon bags containing substances suspected to be Indian hemp.

Edafe said a 57-year-old woman was arrested in connection with the seizure, while investigations are ongoing to determine the origin and intended destination of the drugs.