The Delta State Police Command says it has arrested 43 suspects following violent disturbances that disrupted New Year Eve celebrations in parts of Asaba metropolis.
According to a statement by the Command, officers led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) were on intensified township patrols around midnight on January 1 to safeguard residents and commuters during the festivities.
The police said some hoodlums took advantage of the crowds to block major roads, engage in illegal car races, drive recklessly, throw fireworks at members of the public and cause widespread disorder. The situation reportedly escalated when the suspects allegedly attacked police patrol teams, hurled stones, burned tyres at key junctions and obstructed movement, especially for worshippers returning from church services.
Operatives deployed crowd-control measures to disperse the mob and restore order.
In the operation, police recovered 25 vehicles, eight tricycles, fireworks, various hard drugs and other offensive weapons. The suspects are in custody while investigations continue, after which they will be charged to court, the Command said.
The statement warned that attempts to exploit festive periods to foment violence or attack security personnel will be met with firm and lawful resistance.
The Command added that normalcy has been restored across Asaba and that patrols and monitoring will continue to prevent further breaches of the peace, urging residents to celebrate responsibly and report suspicious activities.
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