Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State — A student of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, and a security operative lost their lives on Thursday, May 14, 2026, after falling into an abandoned water reservoir during a police chase.
The incident occurred in the afternoon near the Mega Chill Hotel area. According to multiple eyewitness accounts, the chase began when the student was allegedly found in possession of cannabis. Security operatives attempted to apprehend him, leading to a foot pursuit through difficult terrain.
In the chaos, both the student and one of the pursuing operatives fell into the water-filled abandoned reservoir. Despite rescue efforts by bystanders, who reportedly took over 20 minutes to retrieve the victims, both were pronounced dead at the scene.
While official identities are yet to be released by authorities, the deceased student has been locally identified as a polytechnic student preparing for examinations. The second victim is reported to be a police officer or a civilian hunter assisting in the operation.
The tragedy has triggered outrage on social media, with many criticising the alleged aggressive tactics used in the pursuit. Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu and other voices have called for accountability, questioning why the chase continued near a known environmental hazard.
Delta State Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident, including the circumstances of the chase and the lack of safety barriers around the reservoir. Community members have renewed calls for proper fencing and warning signs around abandoned water bodies in the area.
The situation is still developing, and authorities are expected to issue an official statement with confirmed identities and findings in the coming days.
