ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State has reinforced its resolve to protect critical public infrastructure following the arrest of two suspected electric cable vandals by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in collaboration with a local vigilante group in Kwale, Ndokwa West Local Government Area.
The successful operation, which led to the recovery of vandalised electric cables, has been hailed as a major breakthrough in the fight against the destruction of public assets, underscoring the growing synergy between security agencies, local communities and the state government in combating crime.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori commended the Delta State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, for its swift response and sustained efforts to protect government infrastructure from criminal elements.
The governor also applauded members of the local vigilante group whose collaboration with the police contributed to the success of the operation, describing community participation as indispensable in strengthening security and safeguarding public investments.
According to the statement, protecting public infrastructure remains a priority of the state government, as the destruction of facilities meant for public use not only undermines development but also deprives communities of essential services.
“The arrest of the suspects sends a clear message that criminal attacks on public infrastructure will not be tolerated. Government will continue to support security agencies in ensuring that public assets are protected for the benefit of all Deltans,” the statement said.
Earlier, the Delta State Police Command, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed that operatives of the Kwale Police Station, acting on credible intelligence and working jointly with members of a local vigilante group, carried out the operation on June 25, 2026, along the Ibabu–Ugiliamai Road.
The police said the suspects were allegedly caught dismantling and stealing electric cables before they attempted to flee on sighting the security team. They were, however, apprehended after a brief pursuit.
One of the suspects sustained injuries during the operation and is currently receiving medical treatment under police watch, while the second suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
The suspects were identified as 28-year-old Osakwe Sunday and 34-year-old Ekene Obocha. The vandalised electric cables were recovered at the scene and have been retained as exhibits.
Governor Oborevwori urged residents to continue partnering with security agencies by providing timely and credible information capable of preventing crime and exposing criminal networks operating within their communities.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security, protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring that public investments continue to deliver lasting benefits to citizens.
Also speaking, Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, warned individuals involved in vandalising government facilities and other public infrastructure to desist from such criminal acts or face the full weight of the law.
He assured residents that the command would sustain intelligence-driven operations aimed at identifying, arresting and prosecuting offenders, while appealing to members of the public to continue supporting the police with useful information capable of preventing crime and bringing perpetrators to justice.
