The Delta State Police Command has stepped up intelligence-led operations against drug cartels, drug dens and criminal hideouts across the state following the death of a 15-year-old boy in a suspected drug abuse incident.
The Command said the renewed offensive is part of efforts to dismantle drug networks, prevent avoidable deaths and curb crimes linked to substance abuse, including cultism and violence.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, said the action became necessary in view of recurring drug-related cases reported in different parts of the state, many of them involving young persons.
According to the police, the latest incident was reported at Orogun Division, where a 15-year-old boy, identified as Gift Oberhirhi, allegedly consumed multiple Dexamethasone tablets without medical prescription after obtaining them from a friend.
The police said the boy later became critically ill and died while being rushed for medical attention.
Following the report, police operatives were said to have responded swiftly, visited the scene and evacuated the body to the General Hospital Mortuary, Orogun, for autopsy.
The Command added that another 15-year-old, Destiny Akpofure, has been arrested in connection with the case and is currently in custody, while investigations are ongoing.
The police said the incident highlights the growing public safety threat posed by the illegal circulation and misuse of prescription drugs, controlled substances and other harmful drugs, particularly among vulnerable youths.
The Command noted that the case further reinforces the urgency of ongoing enforcement actions targeted at those involved in the unlawful sale and distribution of drugs across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi John Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, assuring residents that all necessary measures would be taken to tackle drug-related crimes.
He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspected drug peddling, drug abuse and other suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The Delta Police Command said its intensified operations would continue as part of a broader strategy to disrupt criminal networks and protect young people from the dangers of substance abuse.
