Group condemns DPO’s killing, kidnapping upsurge in Delta 

A rights group, the Organisation for Human and People’s Rights Protection and Humanitarian has strongly condemned the noticeable upsurge in kidnapping incidents across Delta State, which tragically culminated in the loss of a Divisional Police Officer, among other gallant operatives, on a rescue mission on Monday.

The group stated that the circumstances surrounding the killing of the newly posted DPO, Agbarho division, CSP N. H. Jega, “Is alarming and unacceptable as the criminal circumstances have assumed a worrisome dimension in the state.”

This was contained in a statement signed by OHPRPH Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Rosemary Ishioma Oshilim, who was the Delta State deputy governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the 2023 gubernatorial elections.

OHPRPH, in the statement, copies of which were made available to journalists in Warri on Tuesday extended its deepest condolences to the Nigeria Police Force, particularly the Delta State Command, and the families of the deceased officers.

“We also wish CSP Paul Oboware a full and speedy recovery”, it added.

The statement partly reads, “We are deeply saddened by this heinous attack on our law enforcement officers. Our hearts go out to the families of the fallen heroes and the entire Nigeria Police Force during this difficult time.

“This tragic event underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the rising crime rate in Delta State. The OHPRPH calls on all stakeholders, including government agencies, community leaders, and civil society organizations, to collaborate on developing effective strategies to combat kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.

“The prevailing hardships in our country have contributed to an alarming increase in criminal activities. We must address the root causes of these issues while simultaneously strengthening our law enforcement capabilities. The OHPRPH urges the Delta State Police Command to leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators of this attack to justice. We stand in solidarity with the police force and offer our support in their efforts to maintain law and order in our communities.”

It will be recalled that in the early hours of October 14, 2024, a team led by two Divisional Police Officers was ambushed by suspected kidnappers near the Agbarho railway station, an incident which resulted in multiple casualties and injuries among the police rescue team.

The ambush which occurred around 1:00 am amidst the kidnap rescue operation led to the killing of CSP Jega, the newly appointed DPO of Agbarho Division, in the exchange of fire with the hoodlums, just two days after he assumed the duty post.

CSP Paul Oboware, DPO of the Orerokpe Division, was critically injured and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.