Delta State Police Command has launched a coordinated operation to dismantle all illegal roadblocks and extortion points along major highways in the state. The initiative, which began on Monday, aims to curb the rising menace of highway robbery and extortion by criminal elements posing as security personnel.
Operation Details and Arrests
The police spokesperson, DSP Bright Edafe, confirmed that the operation has led to the arrest of 15 suspects within the first 48 hours. Among those arrested, seven were found in possession of fake identity cards and weapons, including locally made pistols and cutlasses. The suspects were operating at various locations along the Benin-Asaba Expressway and the Warri-Sapele Road.
According to Edafe, the crackdown was ordered by the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, who expressed zero tolerance for any form of illegality on the highways. “We have received numerous complaints from motorists and transport unions about the harassment and extortion at illegal checkpoints. This operation will be sustained until we rid our roads of these criminals,” Edafe stated.
Impact on Motorists and Transport Unions
The operation has been widely welcomed by motorists and commercial drivers. Chairman of the Delta State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Mr. Joseph Oghor, commended the police for the swift action. “Our members have been subjected to daily extortion, sometimes paying up to ₦5,000 per trip to thugs who block the roads. This crackdown will bring relief to thousands of transporters,” Oghor said.
A survey conducted by the police indicates that illegal roadblocks cost the state’s transport sector over ₦100 million annually in bribes and lost time. The police have set up a dedicated hotline for motorists to report any re-emergence of illegal checkpoints.
Legal Measures and Public Cooperation
The police have warned that anyone found manning an illegal checkpoint will be prosecuted under the Criminal Code Act, facing up to 10 years imprisonment. They also advised motorists not to pay any money to unauthorized persons at any point on the road. “We urge the public to report any such incidents to the nearest police station or call the command’s emergency lines. We will not tolerate any form of complicity by our officers,” Edafe added.
Broader Security Crackdown in Delta
This operation is part of a wider security initiative by the Delta State Government to tackle crime. The state governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, recently approved the deployment of additional patrol teams and the installation of surveillance cameras along major highways. The police have also been directed to strictly monitor uniformed officers to prevent impersonation.
As the operation continues, the police have assured that the gains so far will be consolidated. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and support the efforts of the security agencies.
