[By Abigail Philip David]
A newly appointed Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Agbarho, Delta State, CSP Jega, was tragically killed along with several officers after being ambushed by a kidnap syndicate during a rescue operation. The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Monday, just two days after Jega assumed his position at the Agbarho Divisional Command.
According to reports, the DPO, alongside CSP Paul, the DPO of the Orerokpe division, led their teams on a mission to rescue kidnap victims. As they approached a location near the Agbarho rail station, they were ambushed by the kidnappers, who opened fire on the security personnel.
In the ensuing gunfight, CSP Jega and several officers were killed, while CSP Paul narrowly escaped death and was rushed to a hospital, where doctors are currently fighting to save his life.
Warri-based activist Israel Joe expressed deep sorrow over the incident, recalling a recent conversation with CSP Jega regarding misconduct by officers under his command. Joe lamented the loss, describing Jega as a dedicated officer who had quickly taken action to correct his men’s behavior. He extended his condolences to the Nigeria Police Force, Delta State Command, and the families of the fallen officers.
Confirming the incident, Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, stated, “They (the police team) were ambushed. But it’s only the DPO that we lost.”
The tragic incident has sparked calls for a stronger crackdown on criminal syndicates in the region.
