Police foil robbery in Sapele, recover SUV, phones, electronics
In a dramatic and well-coordinated operation, officers of the Nigeria Police Force in Sapele, led by Divisional Police Officer (DPO) CSP Obioguru Johnbull, foiled a daring armed robbery attack, recovering a stolen Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV, multiple smartphones, and other household electronics. The late-night operation, which involved Delta Hawk patrol teams and local vigilantes, culminated in a high-speed chase that forced the fleeing robbers to abandon their loot.
The incident occurred along Ogbiromu Road, off the NDDC Road axis in Sapele, where a group of heavily armed robbers stormed a residential apartment, carting away valuables. The stolen items included the GLK SUV, several mobile phones, a 55-inch LED television, a home theatre system, and other electronics.
Terrified residents raised alarm as the gang, operating with military-like coordination, overwhelmed the premises. However, their operation was cut short after a flurry of distress calls prompted immediate action from the Sapele Police Division.
Responding swiftly, CSP Johnbull mobilized his men, Delta Hawk operatives, and members of the local vigilante group led by Commander Randy. The combined forces engaged in a coordinated pursuit of the robbers, who had fled the scene in the stolen SUV.
During the high-speed chase, the suspects drove recklessly in an attempt to evade arrest, but their vehicle eventually somersaulted due to the intensity of the pursuit. The crash forced the suspects to flee on foot, with some sustaining gunshot injuries as police opened fire during the confrontation.
Despite their escape into the bush, officers were able to recover the abandoned GLK SUV and several looted items. These were promptly transported to the Sapele Police Station for documentation and identification by the rightful owners.
Recovered items include the luxury SUV, a collection of smartphones (including iPhones, Samsung, Tecno, and Infinix models), a 55-inch LED TV, a home theatre system, and various other household electronics. Police assured that the items would be returned to their owners upon verification.
The incident highlights the effectiveness of joint security collaboration in tackling rising crime, with many residents praising the timely response and courage shown by the police and vigilante forces. The unity between formal law enforcement and grassroots community security is increasingly proving to be a game-changer in local policing.
Efforts to reach the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Edafe Bright, for official comments on the incident were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered at the time of filing this report.
