Delta State has recorded significant gains in the fight against crime, with kidnapping incidents dropping markedly in recent months, according to the Commander of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Abdulmoshood Shonibare.
Speaking to journalists recently ,Delta State Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Asaba, Shonibare said a review of security developments since the last ad hoc session showed that closer coordination between security agencies, traditional rulers, and local councils had delivered tangible results.
Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu (left), with Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, Mr. Olufemi Abaniwonda (middle), and Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu (right) ,addressing journalists after the Security Council meeting at Government House, Asaba.
“Delta State is calmer than it was a few months ago, and we can all attest to this. The cases of kidnappings have dramatically reduced, and cultists no longer have a foothold here,” Shonibare said.
He cited a recent joint rescue operation in which two female students and one male student—kidnapped in separate incidents—were freed unharmed. The operation, carried out alongside the Nigerian Police Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad, resulted in the killing of two suspected kidnappers and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, loaded magazines, and 16 rounds of ammunition.
The Brigade Commander added that security forces had intercepted fleeing criminal elements, including members of the proscribed IPOB group, attempting to hide in Asaba, Warri, and surrounding communities.
“Those who think Delta State is a safe haven should think twice. We are coming after them,” he warned.
On grassroots safety, Shonibare identified drug abuse and trafficking as major crime drivers and disclosed that strengthened collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and high-level visits by senior military officers—such as the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General E.E. Emeka—had boosted anti-drug operations in Ughelli, Abraka, Warri, and other hotspots.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, also highlighted the command’s recent successes in partnership with other agencies. These include the neutralization of several kidnap suspects, the recovery of multiple firearms—including AK-47 and pump-action rifles—and the seizure of ₦5.7 million in ransom money from kidnappers.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olufemi Abaniwonda (3rd right), briefing the press after the Security Council meeting at Government House, Asaba, flanked by Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Moronfolu Shonibare (3rd left), SSG Dr. Kingsley Emu (2nd left), Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ekemejero Ohwovoriole (left), and others.
Olufemi assured residents and investors of a safe festive season, noting that preparations for the ember months were already underway.
“Last year, Delta had one of its most peaceful Christmas celebrations. This year will be even more peaceful. Deltans can return home to celebrate with their loved ones without fear,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development, empowerment programmes, and enhanced security, assuring that robust measures are in place to safeguard lives and property as the year winds down.
