DELTA POLICE EXPLAIN AK-47 RECOVERY AFTER POLITICAL RALLY TENSION

The Delta State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and the rescue of a man who was allegedly attacked by youths during heightened political tension in Uvwie Local Government Area. The Command said it received intelligence on September 15 about a planned rally involving supporters of the All Progressives Congress and the National Democratic Congress, with concerns that the gathering could result in a clash. Both groups later submitted written notifications on September 17, less than 10 hours before the planned September 18 event at Angle Park in Warri.

The police said organisers were advised against using the park as the convergence point, after which the two groups reportedly moved to separate locations. Officers were deployed to the proposed venue from 5am on September 18 as part of efforts to prevent a breakdown of law and order. According to the Command, rising tension during the political activities led to the deployment of additional patrol teams under Operation Show of Force, which helped to bring the situation under control.

However, at about 11:30am, police patrol officers reportedly observed a group of youths attacking a man identified as Collins Egbara near an old building in Orumarho community, Effurun. The officers intervened and rescued Egbara after he had allegedly been severely beaten, before taking him to a hospital for treatment. The police said they could not immediately determine whether Egbara was a supporter of the APC or NDC because he was unable to give a statement due to his condition.

Following the rescue, officers searched the building where Egbara was found and recovered an AK-47 rifle. The Command specifically rejected reports that the weapon had been voluntarily handed over to the police, stressing that it was recovered during the search. The ownership and circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm remain under investigation, while Egbara has been placed under protective custody as he receives medical attention. The police said his statement would be obtained when his condition improves and that he would be prosecuted if investigations establish his connection with the weapon or any offence.

Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, assured residents that the investigation would be conducted thoroughly and without compromise. The Command also urged political parties and campaign organisers to notify the police well ahead of rallies so adequate security arrangements could be made. The police said early notification was necessary for proper threat assessment, deployment and crowd management, particularly where rival political groups are expected to hold activities within the same area.