The Delta State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to curb violent street crimes, following the successful arrest of suspected “One Chance” armed robbers in Asaba on Friday, April 24, 2026. The operation, which was carried out in the early hours of the morning, led to the interception of a criminal group that has allegedly been terrorizing commuters across major routes within the state capital and its surrounding communities. Authorities also confirmed the recovery of firearms, ammunition, and several stolen items believed to have been taken from previous victims.
According to information from the police, the operation was the result of coordinated intelligence gathering and swift response by operatives attached to the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team. The gang had reportedly been operating using a deceptive strategy commonly referred to as “One Chance,” where unsuspecting passengers are picked up in seemingly normal commercial vehicles, only to be robbed, assaulted, or sometimes abandoned in isolated locations once they are trapped inside the vehicle. In many reported cases, victims described how they boarded what appeared to be a regular taxi or minibus along busy routes, especially around Asaba and the Ogwashi-Uku axis, only to realize too late that the occupants were criminals.
The latest breakthrough came after a concerned resident alerted security operatives about a suspicious vehicle that had been seen picking up passengers in an unauthorized location. Acting quickly on the tip, police officers began monitoring the movement of the vehicle. When the suspects reportedly noticed they were being followed, they attempted to escape, leading to a brief but intense pursuit. The chase moved through parts of the city and toward a bypass road, where officers eventually succeeded in cutting off their escape route. The vehicle was brought to a halt, and two of the suspects were arrested on the spot. However, one member of the gang managed to flee the scene, escaping into nearby swampy terrain. Police have since launched a manhunt to track down the fleeing suspect.
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A search of the vehicle after the arrest revealed items that further confirmed the criminal intent of the suspects. Officers recovered two locally fabricated pistols as well as a cut-to-size single-barrel firearm. In addition to the weapons, several rounds of live cartridges were found inside the vehicle, suggesting the gang was fully prepared for violent confrontations. Police also discovered a collection of stolen belongings, including mobile phones, handbags, and various sums of money. Investigators believe these items were taken from victims during earlier operations carried out by the same group within the past few weeks.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest and the recovery of exhibits. He stated that during preliminary questioning, the suspects reportedly made confessional statements linking themselves to multiple robbery incidents recorded in recent weeks. According to him, the gang may be responsible for at least five separate cases of “One Chance” attacks reported across different parts of Asaba and its surrounding areas within a three week period. He added that investigations are still ongoing to determine the full extent of their operations and to identify possible accomplices who may still be at large.
The police used the opportunity to once again warn members of the public about the dangers of boarding unverified vehicles, especially in urban areas where “One Chance” robberies have become a recurring security concern. The command emphasized that criminals often exploit busy transport routes and unsuspecting commuters who are in a rush or unfamiliar with safe boarding practices. Residents were advised to make use of recognized motor parks and official transport hubs rather than entering vehicles picked up from roadside locations or isolated areas. The police also cautioned against entering vehicles that already contain multiple occupants whose identities are unknown or whose behavior appears suspicious.
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In addition, commuters were encouraged to take extra safety precautions during their daily movements. This includes sharing vehicle details such as plate numbers or driver descriptions with family members or friends before beginning a trip. Authorities explained that such simple steps can make a significant difference in tracking movements and responding quickly in emergency situations. The command reiterated that vigilance from the public remains a critical part of the fight against street crime, as timely information often enables law enforcement to prevent attacks before they occur.
This latest arrest forms part of a wider security crackdown currently being implemented by the Delta State Police Command. Over the past month, the command has intensified its operations across various parts of the state, targeting not only street robbery groups but also kidnappers and illegal arms manufacturers. In previous operations, police successfully dismantled a kidnapping network operating in Orerokpe and also apprehended individuals involved in the illegal fabrication of firearms in Emuhu. These coordinated efforts, according to the police, are part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing violent crime and restoring public confidence in safety across the state.
Security patrols have also been visibly increased in key urban centers such as Warri, Sapele, and Asaba. The police say these patrols are expected to continue in the coming weeks, especially as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. The command has assured residents that it remains committed to maintaining law and order, while also ensuring that criminal elements find no safe haven within the state.
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Meanwhile, the arrested suspects are currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Asaba, where they are undergoing further interrogation. Police authorities confirmed that once investigations are completed, the suspects will be formally charged in court to face prosecution. Efforts are also ongoing to recover additional stolen items and possibly link the suspects to other unresolved robbery cases within the region.
The police have further urged members of the public who may have fallen victim to “One Chance” robberies along the Asaba, Ibusa, and Ogwashi-Uku routes to come forward and assist with identification processes. Victims are encouraged to report to the command headquarters or the nearest police station to help in identifying recovered property or providing useful information that could support ongoing investigations.
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