By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Delta State has witnessed a sharp drop in kidnapping cases in recent months, the Commander of 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Abdulmoshood Shonibare, said this on Wednesday.
The army general gave this disclosure while speaking after a meeting of the Delta State Security Council chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Asaba, Shonibare said improved coordination among security agencies, traditional rulers, and local government authorities had yielded positive results.
“Delta State is calmer than it was a few months ago, and we can all attest to this. The cases of kidnappings have dramatically reduced, and cultists no longer have a foothold here,” he said.
He cited a recent rescue mission in which two female students and a male student abducted in separate incidents were freed unharmed.
The joint operation with the Nigerian Police Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad led to the killing of two suspected kidnappers and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, magazines, and 16 rounds of ammunition.
Shonibare disclosed that security forces have also intercepted fleeing criminal elements, including members of the proscribed IPOB group, trying to hide in Asaba, Warri, and surrounding communities.
“Those who think Delta State is a safe haven should think twice. We are coming after them,” he warned.
On grassroots security, the Brigade Commander said fresh measures were being taken to tackle drug abuse and trafficking, which he described as major crime drivers.
He noted that recent visits by senior military officers, including the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General E.E. Emeka, and engagements with the NDLEA in Delta State, had boosted anti-drug operations in Ughelli, Abraka, Warri, and other hotspots.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, also briefed the press, outlining the command’s successes in joint operations.
These included the neutralization of several kidnap suspects, recovery of multiple firearms — including AK-47 and pump-action rifles — and the seizure of ₦5.7 million in ransom from kidnappers.
Olufemi assured residents of a peaceful festive season, saying preparations for the ember months were already in motion.
“Last year, Delta had one of its most peaceful Christmas celebrations. This year will be even more peaceful. Deltans can return home to celebrate with their loved ones without fear,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori, in his remarks, restated his administration’s focus on infrastructure, empowerment programmes, and robust security as the year draws to a close.
He assured that all necessary measures had been put in place to protect lives and property across the state.