Delta Police Confirm 15-Year-Old Boy Dies Following Dexamethasone Abuse

The Delta State Police Command, has confirmed the death of a 15-year-old boy, Gift Oberhirhi following the reported abused of Dexamethasone tablets.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe, confirmed this in a statement, on Thursday.

He said that the case was reported at Orogun Police Division in Ughelli North local government area of the state.

The drug was reportedly provided to the teegage by his friend, Destiny Akpofure who is also 15 year old.

Edafe said that the deceased without a doctor’s prescription, took the drug from the suspect and swallowed fifteen tablets.

He also disclosed that the boy subsequently fell ill and died while being taken for medical attention.

He said that the police operatives promptly responded to the report, visited the scene, and evacuated the body to the General Hospital Mortuary, Orogun, for autopsy.

The suspect, he said has been arrested and is currently in custody, while the matter will be thoroughly investigated.

The State Police Command had 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.

He said the moves become necessary in view of recurring drug-related incidents reported in various parts of the State, many of which involve young persons.

The police image maker notes that the 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”, he noted.

The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command CP Yemi John Oyeniyi, has reiterated 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.