Delta police bust phone stealing syndicate, recover nine stolen Android phones
The Delta State Police Command has arrested four suspected members of a phone stealing syndicate and recovered nine brand new Android phones in an operation aimed at curbing robbery and other property-related crimes across the state.
The suspects were arrested on 25 July 2026, following a series of reported cases of mobile phone theft from shops in Asaba and its environs. Acting on credible intelligence and technical analysis, operatives of the Command traced and raided the syndicate’s hideout along St. Brigid’s Road, Asaba, where the suspects were apprehended.
The arrested suspects were identified as Johna Omarocha (male), Kelvin Onogho (male), Nkechi Nnaji (female), and Ufuoma Joshua (male).
During a search of the hideout, police recovered nine brand new Android phones still sealed in their cartons. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects allegedly specialised in stealing newly purchased phones from retail shops within Asaba and surrounding areas.
According to the Police, the suspects reportedly disguised themselves as customers in shops and supermarkets, using newspapers to cover phones while pretending to inspect or purchase items before leaving with the devices.
The investigation further revealed that the female member of the syndicate was allegedly responsible for sending the stolen phones to Lagos, where their IMEI numbers were altered before they were resold.
The suspects have reportedly confessed to the crime, while efforts are ongoing to arrest other fleeing members of the syndicate and identify the rightful owners of the recovered phones.
The Command said the suspects remain in custody and will be charged to court upon the completion of investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, psc, acipm, mnips, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling all forms of criminal activities. He urged shop owners, business operators and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the Police.
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