The Delta State Police Command has apprehended nine individuals during a statewide operation targeting illegal roadblocks and unauthorised revenue collection on major highways across the state.
The exercise, which commenced on Friday, was carried out in line with the Federal Government’s directive aimed at eliminating extortion and other criminal activities on Nigerian roads.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Bright Edafe.
According to the statement, the operation focused on identified hotspots where illegal toll collection and roadblocks have hindered the free movement of motorists and posed security risks to road users.
The suspects were arrested at key locations, including the Head Bridge axis along the Delta-Anambra boundary and the Benin-Asaba Expressway near Agbor.
“The Delta State Police Command has launched a statewide clampdown on illegal road blocks and unauthorized revenue collection along highways, in strict compliance with the Federal Government directive to rid Nigerian roads of extortion and criminal activities,” the statement read.
It added, “During the operation, nine suspects were arrested at strategic locations, including the Head Bridge axis, the boundary between Delta and Anambra states, and the Benin-Asaba Expressway by Agbor.”
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The police said the suspects remain in custody and would be arraigned in court after investigations are completed.
The command also reaffirmed its determination to rid the state’s highways of illegal activities, noting that similar operations would be extended to other parts of Delta State.
“The Delta State Police Command reiterates its commitment to restoring sanity and safety to highways across the state.
“Similar enforcement exercises will be replicated in other parts of Delta to ensure that motorists and commuters travel without harassment or illegal levies,” the statement added.
The command further appealed to residents and road users to cooperate with officers as the enforcement exercise continues across the state.