The usually busy Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli, Delta State, was thrown into chaos and grief on Monday after a police chase ended tragically, leaving two people dead and another critically injured.
What started as a routine stop-and-search operation by officers of Operation Delta Sweep reportedly spiraled into a deadly high-speed pursuit that claimed innocent lives, leaving the community in shock.
Eyewitnesses said the victims were pedestrians going about their normal activities when a Mercedes-Benz GLK, being pursued by the police, lost control and ploughed into them near Union Bank along the East-West Road.
According to accounts, the chase began on Agbarha Road and continued onto the expressway before the fatal crash occurred.
Sources said one of the occupants of the fleeing vehicle was apprehended, while others managed to escape.
The incident has triggered widespread anger, especially on social media, with residents blaming both the police and the suspects for the avoidable tragedy.
Many accused the police of recklessness during high-speed pursuits in crowded areas, while others expressed concern over the growing number of fatal crashes involving motorists trying to evade checkpoints.
When contacted, Delta State Police Command spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, said he had not been briefed on the incident.
“I’m not aware of this. Some people said it’s Delta Sweep please reach out to them to confirm,” he responded via WhatsApp.
Operation Delta Sweep rebranded from Delta Hawk in 2024 is a joint security initiative between the Delta State Government and security agencies, including the police.
Sadly, this is not the first time such an incident has occurred in Ughelli or other parts of Delta State. Similar police chases have ended in fatalities in the past, reigniting calls for greater caution and reform in police pursuit operations.
