Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Delta State Police Command has escalated targeted operations against drug dens, illegal drug distribution networks, and criminal hideouts following the death of a 15-year-old boy allegedly linked to drug misuse in the Orogun area of the state.
According to the police, the incident occurred when the teenager, Gift Oberhirhi, reportedly ingested a large quantity of Dexamethasone tablets after obtaining them from a peer, also aged 15. Oberhirhi took fifteen tablets of the drug without a prescription and soon fell critically ill. He was being transported for medical attention when he collapsed and died. The body was subsequently evacuated to the General Hospital Mortuary in Orogun for autopsy and further examination.
Police operatives swiftly responded and arrested the other teenager involved, Destiny Akpofure, who allegedly provided the pills. The suspect remains in custody as the matter is thoroughly investigated.
The Delta State Police Command described the incident as a stark indicator of the dangers posed by the illegal distribution and misuse of pharmaceutical and controlled substances, particularly among youths in vulnerable communities. Authorities stressed that the case highlights the broader public safety risk created when dangerous drugs circulate outside regulated medical channels and fall into the hands of adolescents.
While toxicology reports on the specific cause of death are awaited, officials have expressed concern about the ease with which potent drugs reach young people. Police renewed a strong warning to youths against drug abuse, noting prior experiences where substance misuse resulted in serious health emergencies, fatalities, and social harm.
The Police Commissioner for Delta State, CP Yemi John Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property. He stated that intelligence-led operations targeting drug hotspots and criminal elements have been intensified to disrupt networks involved in the sale and distribution of illicit drugs. In recent weeks, coordinated raids across Warri, Ughelli, and other parts of Delta State have resulted in arrests and seizures of narcotics during wider criminal patrols. These operations are part of sustained efforts to enhance public safety and reduce drug-related crime.
Law enforcement officials called on community members to support efforts to curb drug abuse by reporting suspicious activity, drug peddling, and unsafe gatherings where substances are suspected to be sold or used. Authorities emphasised that community cooperation is essential to identifying and dismantling drug supply chains that disproportionately affect young people.
Public health advocates and education stakeholders have urged increased awareness campaigns in schools, religious institutions, and local communities about the dangers of drug misuse and the importance of proper medical supervision for pharmaceuticals. They noted that wrongful self-medication and recreational use of prescription drugs continue to pose serious risks.
For the family and friends of Gift Oberhirhi, the loss has stirred deep sorrow and a renewed resolve among relatives and community leaders to advocate for stronger protective measures for young people. They echoed police warnings that drug misuse is not a trivial matter and that the consequences can be fatal.
As investigations continue, the Delta State Police Command maintains that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure that those responsible for supplying dangerous substances to minors are identified, prosecuted, and held accountable, and that measures are implemented to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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