Rita Enemuru Reporting
The Delta State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing fight against kidnapping and violent crime, following the death of two suspected kidnappers and the rescue of two abducted women during a joint security operation in the state.
According to a statement issued on 9 April 2026 by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad, working in collaboration with the military, carried out an intelligence-led operation at about 12:40 a.m. along the Obulu-Uku Power Line.
The operation followed reports of kidnapping incidents in Ibusa and Enu-Ani Mega City, Ogwashi-Uku, where suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate had abducted victims and taken them to a hideout in the area.
Police said the suspects opened fire upon sighting the operatives, resulting in a gun battle. The officers returned fire, successfully rescuing two female kidnap victims unharmed.
During the exchange, two members of the kidnapping gang sustained fatal gunshot wounds. They were later taken to hospital, where doctors confirmed them dead.
Security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle, nineteen rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and ₦4.2 million suspected to be part of the ransom collected from victims.
The police added that a combing operation is still underway in nearby bushes to recover more weapons and apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
Commissioner of Police for Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the courage and professionalism of the officers involved, as well as the support provided by the military.
He said inter-agency cooperation remains vital in tackling violent crimes and reassured residents that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
The Commissioner also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist security agencies in combating crime.
