…urge public to discountenance sensationalism, misleading publication

The Delta State Police Command has clarified the arrests made during security operations conducted on New Year’s Eve in Asaba, the state capital.

According to the Command, several suspects were arrested at different locations across Asaba during the operation for offences including violent disturbances, public nuisance, drug-related activities, and conduct considered likely to breach public peace.

The Command’s spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, said in a statement on Tuesday that after preliminary investigations were concluded, 33 suspects were found to have prima facie cases.

He said the suspects were subsequently charged in court and arraigned before Magistrates’ Court 1, Asaba.

Following their arraignment, three suspects were remanded in custody, while the remaining defendants were granted bail by the court.

Prosecution, Edafe said, is ongoing in line with due process.

He further clarified that, contrary to reports circulating in some media outlets, the individual frequently referenced was not arrested as a church worshipper, nor was the person rearrested in connection with any media engagement.

He said the New Year’s Eve operation was carried out as part of routine efforts to maintain public safety and order during the festive period.

‎The spokesman noted that, contrary to the false narrative being circulated, the individual repeatedly referenced by an online media outlet was not arrested as a church worshipper, nor was he rearrested for any alleged media interaction.

‎Edafe stated: “The suspect in question was arrested alongside two (2) other persons in a Mercedes-Benz GLK vehicle, parked in a close street opposite Pinnacle Hotel, Asaba, where they were allegedly purchasing illicit drugs from a suspected drug dealer. The trio was arrested together with the dealer, and incriminating exhibits were recovered at the scene.

“However, considering that one of the suspects is a member of a sister security agency, he was granted bail and released to his institution pending the commencement of arraignment, it being reasonably certain that his attendance in court could be secured through his agency.

“It is pertinent to emphasise that the grant of bail does not terminate investigation, nor does it imply innocence on the part of any suspect. Investigation and prosecution remain ongoing, which necessitated the invitation of the suspect to enable the proper commencement of the investigation and possible prosecution.

“The Delta State Police Command, therefore, calls on well-meaning members of the public to discountenance the persistent sensationalism and misinformation being peddled by the online media platform, which are calculated to mislead the public and undermine lawful police operations.”

‎He said the Command remained resolute in its commitment to professionalism, transparency, due process, and the rule of law, and would not be distracted from its constitutional mandate of maintaining public order and safety. (The Nation)