By Kenneth Orusi, Managing Editor
The Delta State Police Command has dismantled a suspected phone theft syndicate operating in Asaba and recovered nine brand new Android phones allegedly stolen from retail outlets across the state capital.
The breakthrough followed an intelligence-led operation by operatives of the Command, who arrested four suspected members of the syndicate on July 25, 2026, at their hideout along St. Brigid’s Road, Asaba.
The suspects were identified as Johna Omarocha, Kelvin Onogho, Nkechi Nnaji and Ufuoma Joshua.
According to the Police, a search conducted at the hideout led to the recovery of nine brand new Android phones, all still in their original cartons.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly specialised in stealing new mobile phones from shops in Asaba and surrounding areas.
The police said the suspects have made useful confessional statements, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate who remain at large and trace the rightful owners of the recovered phones.
Investigators further disclosed that the syndicate allegedly posed as genuine customers in shops and supermarkets before executing the theft.
They reportedly concealed targeted phones with newspapers to avoid detection and discreetly left the premises with the stolen devices.
The investigation also revealed that the female suspect in the group allegedly handled the shipment of the stolen phones to Lagos, where the devices’ IMEI numbers were reportedly altered before being resold.
The four suspects remain in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to combating robbery and other property-related crimes across the state.
He urged shop owners, business operators and members of the public to remain vigilant, strengthen security measures around their businesses and promptly report suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station.
