The Delta State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its fight against crime, with the arrest of a notorious robbery and fraud syndicate as well as suspects behind a string of ladder thefts across the state.
Acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the CP’s Special Assignment Team led by ASP Julius Robinson, between August 11 and 16, 2025, tracked down and arrested a syndicate of suspected robbers and fraudsters who had been terrorising unsuspecting victims in Warri, Ughelli, and other parts of Delta and Edo States.
The suspects—identified as Ibrukoko (32), Obruche Actor (31), Lucky Umukoro (28), Emmanuel Buruutu (22), Musa Abdulahi (27), Sokoh (30), Preye Julius (36), and Kadija Abass (30)—allegedly lured their victims under the pretense of asking for directions before hypnotising them and dispossessing them of valuables such as phones, motorcycles, jewellery, and even funds from their bank accounts.
Items recovered from the gang include two Toyota Camry vehicles (Reg. Nos. LND-809-HE and KSF-61-JU) and 16 suspected stolen iPhones. Preliminary investigations revealed that the syndicate had defrauded victims of over ₦23.5 million, carted away at least 42 lady motorcycles, and left no fewer than 12 victims counting their losses.
In a separate operation, operatives attached to the Ekpan Police Division also smashed a syndicate that specialised in stealing ladders. Following several complaints, police detectives arrested one Esquire Stanley, who confessed to selling ladders worth ₦250,000 each for as low as ₦20,000. Further investigations led to the arrest of suspected receivers—Chinedu Okorie, Orgi Abara, Philip Augustine, and Obone Jevweu—and the recovery of 11 stolen ladders.
Confirming the arrests, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, assured that the suspects are in custody while investigations continue.
The news of these successes has been greeted with relief and commendation by well-meaning Deltans.
“The police have really lived up to their responsibility this time. These criminals had caused sleepless nights for many traders and commuters. We are grateful to the Command,” said Mrs. Tosan Akpoveta, a businesswoman in Warri.
“Recovering over ₦23 million worth of stolen property is no small feat. The police deserve the support of every citizen in their efforts to rid our communities of crime,” remarked Chief Gabriel Onoriode, a community leader in Ughelli.
“We salute the courage of the Delta State Police. With more of this proactive policing, crime will certainly reduce in our state,” added Comrade Ejiro Igho, a youth activist in Asaba.
As investigations continue, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
