Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested two suspected criminals and recovered two pistols, live ammunition, suspected cocaine and other incriminating items during a stop-and-search operation along the Agbarho–Warri Road.

The arrests, according to the police, were made on Saturday by operatives of the Safer Highway Patrol, as the command intensified efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and drug-related crimes across the state.

The Delta State Police Command has in recent months intensified intelligence-led operations and highway patrols aimed at disrupting criminal networks, intercepting illegal arms and combating drug trafficking as part of broader efforts to improve security across the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the command said the suspects, identified as Omini Ezeri, 46, and Chinedum Wagbara, 42, both residents of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, were intercepted while travelling in a grey Mercedes-Benz ML SUV with registration number AAA 604 JZ.

The statement noted that a third occupant of the vehicle escaped during the operation.

It partly read, “The Delta State Police Command has recorded another significant operational success with the arrest of two suspected criminals and the recovery of firearms, live ammunition, suspected cocaine, and other incriminating exhibits during a stop-and-search operation carried out by operatives of the Safer Highway Patrol along the Agbarho–Warri Road on 25 July 2026.

“The suspects, Omini Ezeri (46) and Chinedum Wagbara (42), both residents of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, were intercepted while travelling in a grey Mercedes-Benz ML SUV with registration number AAA 604 JZ. During preliminary interrogation, a third occupant of the vehicle, God Knows Ifreke, suddenly took to his heels and escaped into a nearby swamp.

“A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of two locally fabricated Beretta pistols loaded with nine rounds of live ammunition, approximately 200 grams of a substance suspected to be cocaine, one walkie-talkie, one dagger, one grinder, and two sophisticated phones. The suspects are in custody, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect.”

The police said the operation underscores the command’s ongoing crackdown on violent crime, illegal firearms and illicit drug trafficking across Delta State.

Commending the operatives for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, praised their vigilance and professionalism.

The statement added, “The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, commended the operatives for their vigilance and professionalism. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment towards ensuring that Delta State remains a hostile environment for criminals and all those involved in the unlawful possession of firearms and trafficking in illicit drugs.

“He urged members of the public to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information that will aid ongoing efforts to keep the State safe.”