Governor Sheriff Oborevwori presided over a State Security Council meeting at Government House, Asaba, where security chiefs reported major progress in curbing violent crimes across Delta State.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commander of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General M.A. Shonibare, disclosed that coordinated security operations had led to a significant decline in kidnapping cases and cult-related activities across the state.
“Incidents of kidnapping have dropped drastically, and cult groups no longer hold ground here,” Shonibare said, crediting the improvement to stronger synergy between security agencies, traditional institutions, and local government authorities.
According to the Army Commander, recent joint operations with the Nigerian Police Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad yielded remarkable results, including the safe rescue of three abducted students, the neutralisation of two suspected kidnappers, and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, loaded magazines, and 16 rounds of live ammunition.
He further revealed that security forces had carried out successful raids against fleeing criminal groups, including members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) who had attempted to find refuge in parts of Asaba, Warri, and nearby communities.
“Those who imagine Delta State as a safe haven for criminality should think again,” he cautioned.
On grassroots security, Brigadier General Shonibare identified drug abuse and trafficking as key drivers of crime in the state. He noted that intensified collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) had boosted crackdowns on hotspots in Ughelli, Abraka, and Warri.
He added that strategic visits from senior military commanders, including the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Major General E.E. Emeka, had further strengthened operational coordination in Delta.
The Security Council reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustaining the gains recorded, pledging continued support for security agencies in maintaining law and order across Delta State.
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