Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested four suspected members of a fraud syndicate and recovered 1,600 counterfeit United States dollar bills in a major operation targeting criminal networks across the state.
The arrests were made by officers attached to the Special Anti-Kidnapping Unit following intelligence reports linking the suspects to fraudulent activities involving fake foreign currency.
Police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, said in a statement on Thursday that the operation began on June 9, 2026, after intelligence indicated that a five-man gang was using counterfeit US dollar notes to swindle unsuspecting victims while moving around in a red Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV without registration.
According to the statement, operatives placed the suspects under surveillance before intercepting and arresting four members of the group along Nnebisi Road in Asaba.
The suspects were identified as Joshua Nwaosa, Daniel Arhewe, Prince Chukwuma and John Egwuba.
During interrogation, the suspects reportedly led investigators to their hideout in Asaba, where officers recovered 1,600 counterfeit US dollar notes as well as military camouflage concealed within the premises.
Police said investigations are continuing to determine the full extent of the syndicate’s activities and to track down other members who may still be at large.
In a separate operation on the same day, officers of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) arrested two women suspected of dealing in illicit drugs in Ika North-East Local Government Area.
The suspects, identified as Ifeoma Egbule, 36, and Anayeokwu Florence, 51, were apprehended during a raid conducted in the Owaliru and Alihame communities based on actionable intelligence.
Items recovered from the suspects included quantities of substances suspected to be GH Gold, Colorado, Cannabis and Canadian Loud.
Preliminary findings suggest the women were involved in the distribution of the prohibited substances within the area, while efforts are underway to identify and arrest other members of the drug network.
Reacting to the successful operations, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, praised the officers involved for their dedication and professionalism.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal groups and improving security across the state.
“The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, commended the operatives for their professionalism, diligence, and commitment to duty. He reiterated the Command’s resolve to sustain intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Delta State,” the statement said
