The Delta State Police Command has begun a full-scale manhunt for Chief Jerry Nkeeshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, and members of an armed group allegedly responsible for the killing of three youths on 24 November 2025 near ‘B’ Division in Asaba.
According to preliminary findings, Chief Nkeeshe allegedly led a team comprising vigilantes and suspected cultists, some reportedly dressed in Army camouflage, to a parcel of land in the Okwe community along the Asaba–Onitsha Road in an attempt to assert ownership of the property. The group was accused of issuing and enforcing an unauthorised quit notice without any court mandate.
According to a press release signed by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the operation reportedly met resistance, leading to a confrontation in which the armed group opened fire. Three youths sustained severe gunshot injuries and were later confirmed dead at the hospital.
In reaction to the attack, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical units, intelligence officers, and specialised investigators to locate and arrest all those connected to the incident. He described the act as a reckless and unacceptable display of lawlessness.
The CP appealed to residents of Onicha-Olona, Asaba, and surrounding communities to assist security operatives with credible information, stressing that no individual, regardless of status or influence, would be shielded from prosecution.
He assured the public that normalcy has returned to the affected area, with increased surveillance and intelligence-led operations ongoing to forestall further disturbances.
The Command urged residents to report sightings or suspicious activity linked to the suspects via its emergency line: 08036684974
