The Delta State Police Command has arrested 202 suspects during an intelligence-led operation targeting criminal hideouts, brothels and suspected illicit drug dens in Asaba, the state capital.
The suspects comprised 102 males and 100 females and were arrested over alleged offences involving the operation of brothels, possession and sale of suspected illicit drugs, and other related crimes.
The operation, conducted on July 4, also led to the impoundment of five cars, 10 tricycles and 10 motorcycles for alleged violations of traffic regulations, including restrictions on tricycle operations and motorcycle use in designated areas.
The Police Public Relations Officer for Delta State, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrests, explaining that the operation followed intelligence gathered by the State Intelligence Department.
He said the raid was led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, alongside other officers of the command.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and sustained enforcement against criminal activities. He urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies.
The arrests formed part of efforts to address suspected criminal activities in Asaba. However, an arrest does not establish guilt, and suspects are entitled to due process under the law.
In a subsequent development, police arraigned 30 of the arrested suspects after preliminary investigations, while 172 others were released following screening. The arraigned suspects faced allegations including operating a brothel, conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace and possession of suspected illicit drugs.
The case highlights the importance of combining intelligence-led enforcement with lawful investigations and judicial proceedings to address crime while protecting individual rights.
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