Delta Police deny use of live ammunition in Orerokpe incident as Effurun’s extrajudicial killing haunts residents

Crime Diary

ASABA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Delta State Police Command has refuted claims circulating on social media that its operatives discharged live ammunition and shot a civilian during an incident in Oviore, Orerokpe.

In a statement issued on May 1, 2026, by SP Bright Edafe, Police Public Relations Officer, the Command described the allegations as false and misleading. It clarified that officers from the Orerokpe Division, while on routine patrol on April 30, attempted to apprehend a suspected drug user but encountered resistance from local youths.

To safely disengage and prevent escalation, the officers deployed smoke canisters (tear gas) strictly as a crowd‑control measure. “No live ammunition was discharged at any time during the incident,” the statement emphasized.

Police confirmed that one of the smoke canisters struck a civilian on the leg, causing injury. The victim was taken to hospital and is receiving medical attention.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reiterated the Command’s commitment to professionalism and accountability, urging the public to disregard false narratives and rely on verified information from official police channels.

The latest incident follows the recent dismissal and prosecution of officers involved in the extra‑judicial killing of Mr. Mene Ogidi in the Effurun axis of Warri on April 26, 2026. ASP Nuhu Usman, who pulled the trigger, along with other members of his team, has since been dismissed from the force and are now facing prosecution.