Security Operation Turns Violent in Delta Community

A joint security operation in Emede community, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, descended into violence over the weekend, leaving several persons injured and properties, including residential buildings, destroyed by fire.

The operation, carried out under Operation Delta Sweep by a combined team of the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies, was reportedly aimed at arresting a suspected drug kingpin.

Sources said the operatives first stormed a hotel where a birthday celebration was ongoing after failing to locate their target elsewhere. Guests were allegedly searched and asked to present their mobile phones for inspection.

Tension reportedly escalated when some youths resisted the phone searches, leading to a confrontation that spiralled into chaos.

According to an eyewitness, “People were celebrating a birthday when the security operatives arrived. Everyone was searched and asked to show their phones. Some youths objected, and the situation became heated.”

As the situation intensified and more residents gathered, security operatives were said to have fired warning shots in an attempt to disperse the crowd.

Several youths sustained injuries during the clash, while a security operative was reportedly attacked by an irate mob before being rescued.

Sources further alleged that the security team later returned with reinforcements, after which the hotel where the incident began, along with nearby houses, was set ablaze.

Attempts to reach the spokesperson of the Delta State Police Command, SP Bright Edafe, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Isoko South Local Government Area, Hon. Comr. Warri Ovoke Friday, has appealed for calm and assured residents that efforts are underway to restore peace and order.

He, alongside the traditional ruler of Emede, HRM Johnson Egbo (Ewhiri II), security officials, and other stakeholders, visited the affected areas to assess the extent of damage, sympathise with victims, and engage community leaders.

He added that relevant authorities are monitoring the situation closely and working to prevent further escalation.

To restore order, the council chairman has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew restricting movement in Emede between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

He urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding as investigations into the incident continue.