A 15-year-old boy, Gift Oberhirhi has died after allegedly abusing Dexamethasone tablets provided by his friend, Destiny Akpofure,15 in Orogun, Delta State.
The deceased was said to have swallowed 15 tablets of the drug without a doctor’s prescription.
He subsequently fell ill and died while being taken for medical attention.
According to Delta State Police Public Relations Officer ( PPRO), “operatives promptly responded to the report, visited the scene, and evacuated the body to the General Hospital Mortuary, Orogun, for autopsy. The suspect has been arrested and is currently in custody, while the matter will be thoroughly investigated.
“The Command notes that this incident reflects the serious public safety risks posed by the illegal distribution and misuse of drugs, hard drugs, controlled drugs and other substances, particularly among vulnerable groups. It further underscores the urgency of ongoing enforcement actions aimed at disrupting the activities of those engaged in the unlawful sale and distribution of drugs.
“The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command (CP) Yemi John Oyeniyi, reiterates the Command’s commitment to the protection of lives and property and assures the public that all necessary measures will be taken to address drug-related crimes across the State. Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant, and report drug sale or use and other suspicious activities to the nearest police station for necessary action.
“The Delta State Police Command has intensified intelligence-led operations targeting drug dens, blackspots, and criminal hideouts across the State as part of sustained efforts to dismantle drug networks, prevent avoidable deaths, and curb crimes associated with substance abuse, including cultism and violence. This action has become necessary in view of recurring drug-related incidents reported in various parts of the State, many of which involve young persons.”
