Troops Arrest 19 Suspects After Mob Attack During Anti-Drug Operation in Delta Community
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Delta Sweep have arrested 19 suspects following an attack by youths on military personnel during an anti-drug operation in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Military sources disclosed that the incident occurred late on June 4 when troops of the 181 Amphibious Battalion, deployed under Operation Delta Sweep, carried out a routine patrol to Emede community following intelligence on the activities of an illicit drug syndicate operating in the area.
According to the sources, the troops successfully raided a suspected hideout used by drug dealers and initially apprehended 15 suspects involved in the illicit drug trade.
However, while efforts were being made to transport the suspects from the scene, a group of youths from the community allegedly mobilised and attacked the troops using cutlasses and other dangerous objects.
The attackers reportedly damaged a military Hilux vehicle and inflicted injuries on three persons during the confrontation.
The injured individuals were evacuated to Adoration Hospital in Ughelli for medical treatment.
Amid the chaos that ensued, the initially arrested suspects, along with some of the attackers, escaped from custody.
In response, troops launched a follow-up operation in the early hours of June 5, returning to the community to identify and apprehend those involved in the attack.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 19 suspects believed to have participated in the assault on the troops.
Military sources said the troops also dismantled and destroyed structures and shops allegedly used as operational bases by illicit drug dealers within the community.
During the operation, security personnel recovered several wraps of substances suspected to be cannabis that had been abandoned by fleeing suspects.
The arrested individuals are currently in custody while investigations continue to determine their respective roles in the incident and possible links to drug trafficking activities in the area.
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to supporting efforts against illicit drug trafficking and other criminal activities, warning that attacks on security personnel carrying out lawful duties would not be tolerated.
They added that operations would continue across the Niger Delta region to dismantle criminal networks and enhance security in affected communities.
