Residents Rejoice as Police Neutralise Kidnap Gang in Delta State Gun Battle

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RESIDENTS of Asaba, Ogwashi-Uku and Ubuluku in Delta State are breathing a sigh of relief following the killing of four suspected kidnappers, including a notorious gang leader, during a fierce gun battle with police operatives.

The confrontation occurred in a forested area along the Asaba/Agbor expressway, near Okpanam and Issele-Asagba, on Thursday night.

According to a press statement released by the Delta State Police Command, the operation was conducted by the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda. The team was tasked with tracking down the gang responsible for a string of high-profile abductions in the region.

The gang had earlier kidnapped a medical doctor in Issele-Uku on 6 April, releasing him the following day after collecting a ransom of ₦15 million.

Further investigations revealed that the same syndicate was behind the gruesome murder of a realtor, Esther Ojoh, whose body was discovered in Ibusa on 25 March.

Acting on intelligence, the CP-SAT team, led by ASP Julius Robinson, arrested Abubakar Usman, also known as “Shehu”, described as the leader of the deadly syndicate.

Police say Usman confessed to multiple kidnappings, including the abduction and murder of Mr Godwin Anuka in Ogwashi-Uku, as well as the abduction of Anuka’s wife and daughter.

The situation escalated when Usman led officers to the gang’s hideout. “While the operatives were searching the area, the suspect suddenly raised an alarm and fled into the forest to join his armed accomplices,” the statement noted. “A fierce gun battle ensued. Four suspects, including Usman, sustained serious gunshot injuries.”

The wounded suspects were taken to the General Hospital in Ogwashi-Uku, where they were confirmed dead. Police recovered three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition from the scene.

Commissioner Abaniwonda lauded the bravery of the CP-SAT operatives, describing their actions as “gallant and worthy of emulation.”

“The Delta State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property,” said CP Abaniwonda. “I appreciate the support of residents who provided credible and timely information. We will not disappoint the good people of Delta State.”

The Police urged the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies to rid the state of criminal elements.