Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested four suspected members of a phone theft syndicate allegedly responsible for stealing brand-new mobile phones from retail shops in Asaba and its environs, recovering nine suspected stolen Android phones during the operation.
The arrest followed a series of reported phone thefts from business premises within the state capital.
According to a statement on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the suspects were apprehended on July 25, 2026, after operatives acted on credible intelligence and technical intelligence analysis.
The suspects were identified as Johna Omarocha, Kelvin Onogho, Nkechi Nnaji and Ufuoma Joshua.
They were arrested at their hideout along St. Brigid’s Road, Asaba.
Edafe said a search of the premises led to the recovery of nine brand-new Android phones still in their cartons.
Preliminary investigations, according to the police, indicate that the suspects are members of a syndicate that allegedly specialises in stealing new mobile phones from retail outlets across Asaba and neighbouring communities.
The police spokesperson disclosed that the suspects allegedly posed as genuine customers in shops and supermarkets, using newspapers to conceal mobile phones before leaving the premises without paying for them.
“The syndicate engages the female suspect among them, who waybills the stolen phones to Lagos, where the IMEI numbers of the devices are allegedly altered before they are sold,” the statement said.
Edafe added that the suspects have reportedly confessed to the crime, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate and identify the rightful owners of the recovered phones.
He noted that the four suspects remain in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Reacting to the breakthrough, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the command’s determination to combat robbery and other property-related crimes across the state.
“The Delta State Police Command remains committed to tackling all forms of crime. We urge members of the public, particularly shop owners and business operators, to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the Police,” Oyeniyi said.
The latest operation, the command said, underscores its sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks and improve public safety across Delta State.
