EBENEZER ADUROKIYA, Warri
The Delta State Police Command has arrested 43 suspected hoodlums following violent disturbances during New Year’s Eve celebrations in parts of the Asaba metropolis.
The arrests were made in the early hours of Thursday, 1 January 2026, during a coordinated township patrol led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations.
The operation involved Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders and their teams, deployed to ensure the safety of residents and commuters during the festivities.
According to the Command, the suspects, comprising miscreants, touts and hoodlums, took advantage of the large crowds to engage in various acts of lawlessness.
These included blocking major roads, engaging in illegal car races, reckless and dangerous driving, knocking down commuters, throwing fireworks at members of the public and causing widespread disorder.
The situation reportedly escalated when the hoodlums attacked police patrol teams by hurling stones and other dangerous objects, while also setting tyres ablaze at key junctions.
These actions disrupted free movement, particularly affecting worshippers returning from New Year church services.
The Police responded swiftly, deploying lawful crowd control measures to disperse the violent mob, restore calm and prevent a further breakdown of law and order.
During the operation, the Police recovered 25 motor vehicles, eight tricycles, fireworks, hard drugs and other offensive weapons from the suspects.
All those arrested are currently in custody, while investigations continue ahead of their arraignment in court.
The Delta State Police Command condemned the actions, warning that any attempt to exploit festive periods to foment violence, obstruct public roads, or attack security personnel would be met with firm and lawful resistance.
Normalcy has since been restored across the affected areas, with intensified patrols and continuous monitoring ongoing to prevent further breaches of the peace.
The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging residents to celebrate responsibly, obey the law and report suspicious activities promptly.
The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe for the Delta State Police Command.
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