The Delta State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding arrests made during its New Year’s Eve security operations in Asaba, announcing that 33 suspects have been arraigned in court over offences linked to violent disturbances, public nuisance, and other criminal activities.
In a statement issued on January 6, 2026, the Command said the arrests followed coordinated security operations carried out across different parts of Asaba to ensure public safety during the New Year celebrations. The police noted that the clarification became necessary following what it described as misleading and malicious reports circulated by Sahara Reporters regarding the arrests.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Edafe Bright Anipr, the suspects were apprehended at various locations within the state capital for offences bordering on violent conduct, drug-related activities, public nuisance, and actions likely to cause a breach of public peace.
“Upon the conclusion of preliminary investigations, thirty-three suspects were found to have prima facie cases against them and were subsequently charged to court,” the statement said.
The suspects were arraigned before Magistrate Court 1 in Asaba, where three of them were remanded in custody, while the remaining suspects were granted bail pending the continuation of prosecution in line with due process.
The Command specifically dismissed reports suggesting that an individual frequently referenced in media reports was arrested as a church worshipper or rearrested for interacting with the media. Police described such claims as false and misleading.
Providing details, the statement explained that the individual in question was arrested alongside two other persons in a Mercedes Benz GLK vehicle parked on a street opposite Pinnacle Hotel in Asaba. The suspects were allegedly purchasing illicit drugs from a suspected drug dealer at the time of arrest. The dealer and the three suspects were taken into custody, and incriminating exhibits were reportedly recovered at the scene.
The police further disclosed that one of the suspects is a member of a sister security agency. As a result, the individual was granted bail and released to his institution pending arraignment, with assurances that his attendance in court could be secured through official channels.
The Command stressed that the grant of bail does not amount to an end to investigations or imply innocence, noting that investigations and prosecution are ongoing. It added that the suspect was subsequently invited to enable the proper commencement of investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.
Calling on the public to remain calm and discerning, the Delta State Police Command urged residents to disregard what it described as sensationalism and misinformation being circulated in some media reports.
“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to professionalism, transparency, due process, and the rule of law, and will not be distracted from its constitutional mandate of maintaining public order and safety,” the statement concluded.
The police reiterated their resolve to continue carrying out lawful operations aimed at ensuring the safety of lives and property across Delta State.
