Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested a woman, Rita Ughale, from Kokori community in Ethiope East Local Government Area, for allegedly selling her two-month-old baby.
She is reported to have sold the infant boy to a couple, Osas Omijie (39) and Judith Omijie (30), for ₦1,500,000.
The police public relations officer (PPRO) for Delta State, SP Bright Edafe, stated in a signed release to journalists in Warri on Friday that both the seller and buyers are in custody, “while the infant was successfully rescued and is safe.”
Edafe explained, “On December 15, 2025, at about 1840hrs, one Rita Ughale, female, of Kokori, Ethiope East Local Government Area, reported at the Ekpan Police Division that her two-month-old baby was snatched from her during a robbery incident while transiting in a tricycle.”
Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer, Ekpan Division, CSP Labe Joseph, coordinated a swift search and rescue operation.
“During the course of the investigation, inconsistencies and suspicious conduct observed in the complainant’s narrative prompted further interrogation. The complainant subsequently confessed that the report was staged and revealed that she had sold her child, aged two months, to one Osas Omijie, male, 39 years, and Judith Omijie, female, 30 years, for the sum of ₦1,500,000. The suspects were arrested, and the infant was successfully rescued and is safe. All suspects are currently in custody while investigation continues.”
Police added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other accomplices.
In a separate development, the PPRO stated that on December 14, 2025, at about 0730hrs, operatives of the Eagle Net Special Squad, Ughelli Surveillance Team, acting on credible intelligence, executed a search at the residence of Lydia Osanebi, 67, of 14th Street, Otor-Edor, Delta State.
During the raid, large quantities of dangerous chemicals suspected to include methanol, formalin, and cochineal (carminic acid) were recovered, alongside empty and newly printed seals and packaging materials of various dry gin brands. Also seized were over 60 litres of suspected counterfeit and adulterated dry gin, super glue, stickers, and shot glasses.
The suspect admitted during interrogation to producing and repackaging adulterated dry gin using recycled bottles for over 20 years. Investigations indicated that methanol is highly toxic and can cause severe health complications, including organ failure, permanent blindness, coma, and death. Authorities are investigating the scope of distribution and other persons involved.
In another operation, CP–Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) led by ASP Julius Robinson raided a residence in the Gana area of Sapele on December 18, 2025, at about 0805hrs, based on credible intelligence.
The raid led to the arrest of Felix Africa, 44, and the seizure of eight bags of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp. Africa reportedly admitted ownership and confessed to dealing in Indian hemp and other illicit drugs.
Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, assured that “the Command remains resolute in its mandate to safeguard lives and property, protect public health, and ensure the safety and welfare of all residents of the State.”
He advised residents to “desist from engaging in illegal activities and to avoid the consumption of unregulated or suspicious products,” while encouraging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via the Control Room at 0803 668 4974.
