New Delta police chief declares war on kidnappers, cultists and robbers

Samuel Erale began his tenure as Delta State's commissioner of police by promising a more intelligence-led and community-based approach to security.

At his inaugural press briefing in Asaba, Erale said protecting lives and property would remain the command's priority. He identified kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, cybercrime, oil-related offences and other violent crimes as targets for intensified operations.

The commissioner outlined five areas of focus: discipline, community policing, cooperation with other security agencies, crime fighting and rebuilding public confidence. He pledged zero tolerance for corruption, extortion and misconduct, while promising recognition for officers who show integrity and exceptional commitment.

Earle said the command would work more closely with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth and women's groups, religious bodies and other stakeholders. He urged residents to provide timely, credible information about suspicious activity. Joint operations, intelligence sharing, coordinated patrols and rapid responses would support the effort, he said, with police resources deployed according to crime patterns and identified hotspots.

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The protection of lives and property will remain the priority of the command.