Three Suspected Kidnappers Killed, Weapons Recovered in Delta

THE Delta State Police Command has recorded major breakthroughs in its ongoing clampdown on violent crime, as the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) neutralised three suspected kidnappers and arrested several others in separate operations across the state.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, on Friday, 30 May, the Command confirmed that the special operations team recovered an array of deadly weapons, including an AK-47 rifle with eighteen rounds of live ammunition, a Beretta pistol, three locally made firearms, and a suspected stolen motorcycle.

According to the statement, “On 27th May 2025 at about 23:35 hours, operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team led by ASP Robinson Julius were conducting a covert patrol along the Ughelli–Patani Road when they attempted to stop a shuttle bus at Ewhereni Junction. The occupants opened fire on the operatives, triggering an intense gun duel.”

Three suspects sustained critical gunshot wounds and were rushed to hospital, where they were later confirmed dead. One AK-47 rifle loaded with eighteen rounds of live ammunition was recovered at the scene, while other suspects managed to flee.

In another operation on 24th May at about 08:45 hours, the team acted on credible intelligence to track down a criminal syndicate operating around Asaba, Okpanam, Ibusa, and Ogwashi-Uku.

The team arrested Ifeanyi Okolie, popularly known as “Black Jesus,” aged 38, who confessed during interrogation and led police to a bush near Okpanam City Gate. “There, three locally made guns, four live cartridges, and a suspected stolen Q-Link motorcycle were recovered,” the statement revealed.

Three other suspects linked to the case were also arrested. They include Ogochukwu Emmanuel, 33, of Ebonyi State; Joseph Egwu, 42, of Afikpo; and Yakubu Yusuf, 28, of Kano State, identified as the receiver of stolen items.

Additionally, a Beretta pistol loaded with five rounds of ammunition was recovered from the residence of one “Nino” in Ibusa, who is currently at large.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended the CP-SAT team for their bravery and professionalism, stating: “These operations underscore our resolute commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety of all Delta residents.”

He urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s control room numbers: 08036684974, 08114895600, or 08025666914.

“Together, we can make Delta State safer for all,” the CP added.