The Delta State Police Command says it has arrested members of a suspected fraud syndicate and recovered 1,600 counterfeit United States dollar bills in separate intelligence-led operations that also led to the arrest of two suspected drug dealers.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the arrests were part of the command’s ongoing efforts to combat fraud, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities across the state.
Edafe said operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit commenced surveillance on June 9 following credible intelligence on a five-man syndicate allegedly involved in defrauding members of the public with counterfeit U.S. dollar notes while operating in a red, unregistered Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV.
The operation led to the arrest of four suspects identified as Joshua Nwaosa, Daniel Arhewe, Prince Chukwuma, and John Egwuba along Nnebisi Road in Asaba.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to operating from a hideout in Asaba. A follow-up raid on the location resulted in the recovery of 1,600 counterfeit U.S. dollar notes and military camouflage concealed within the premises.
“The investigation is ongoing to unravel the full scope of the syndicate’s activities,” Edafe stated.
In a separate operation on the same day, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), acting on intelligence, raided Owaliru and Alihame communities in Ika North-East Local Government Area.
The police spokesperson said two female suspects, Ifeoma Egbule, 36, and Anayeokwu Florence, 51, were arrested during the operation.
According to the police, the suspects were found in possession of substantial quantities of suspected illicit substances, including GH Gold, Colorado, cannabis, and Canadian Loud.
The exhibits were recovered and taken into police custody alongside the suspects.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were allegedly involved in the distribution of prohibited substances within the area, while efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the drug distribution network.
Commenting on the operations, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the officers for their professionalism and dedication.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety and security of residents across the state.
