ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its sustained crackdown on kidnapping and other violent crimes, following a coordinated operation that led to the rescue of two abducted women and the neutralisation of suspected kidnappers.
The development was disclosed in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Bright Edafe, who noted that the operation was carried out under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, with operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad working in synergy with the military.
Police sources said the intelligence-driven operation was executed in the early hours of April 9, 2026, at about 12:40 a.m., after security operatives trailed suspected kidnappers to their hideout along the Obulu-Uku Power Line axis, following reported kidnapping incidents in Ibusa and the Enu-Ani Mega City area of Ogwashi-Uku.
According to the Command, the suspects opened fire on sighting the operatives, leading to a fierce gun duel. The operatives responded professionally, resulting in the successful rescue of two female victims held in captivity.
Two members of the kidnapping syndicate sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the exchange and were later confirmed dead at a hospital where they were taken for treatment.
Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle, nineteen rounds of AK-47 ammunition and a cash sum of N4.2 million, suspected to be part of ransom collected from victims.
The police said a combing operation of the surrounding bushes is ongoing with a view to recovering additional arms and apprehending fleeing members of the gang.
Commending the operatives for their bravery and professionalism, CP Oyeniyi said the success of the operation underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling violent crimes.
He reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging members of the public to continue to provide credible and timely information to the Police.
