ASABA/Nigeria: A tragic drug-related death involving a teenager has prompted the Delta State Police Command to intensify a sweeping crackdown on drug dens, blackspots and criminal hideouts across the state, as authorities move to dismantle illicit networks fueling substance abuse and violence.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, who signed the statement, said the renewed operation is driven by growing concerns over the alarming rise in drug-related incidents, particularly among young persons, with far-reaching implications for public safety.
In one of such incidents, the Command disclosed that a 15-year-old boy, Gift Oberhirhi, reportedly died after allegedly consuming an overdose of Dexamethasone tablets obtained from his friend, also 15, identified as Destiny Akpofure, in Orogun.
According to the police, the deceased, without medical prescription, ingested about fifteen tablets of the drug, after which he fell ill and later died while being rushed for medical attention.
Police operatives were said to have swiftly responded to the incident, visited the scene and evacuated the corpse to the General Hospital Mortuary in Orogun for autopsy, while the suspect has been arrested and is currently in custody pending the conclusion of investigations.
The Command described the incident as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with the illegal distribution and abuse of controlled substances, particularly among vulnerable groups such as teenagers.
It noted that the development underscores the urgency of its ongoing enforcement operations aimed at disrupting the activities of individuals and networks involved in the unlawful sale and distribution of drugs across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi John Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, assuring residents that decisive measures are being implemented to tackle drug-related crimes.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, including the sale and use of illicit drugs, to the nearest police station to aid ongoing efforts at maintaining law and order.
