A joint police-military operation in Delta State has led to the rescue of two kidnapped victims and the death of two suspected kidnappers after a fierce gun battle.
The operation, carried out in the early hours of April 9, 2026, was part of an intelligence-driven crackdown on kidnapping and other violent crimes by the Delta State Police Command in collaboration with the military.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad acted on credible intelligence to track the suspects to their hideout along the Obulu-Uku Power Line axis.
“Acting on actionable intelligence, our operatives, in a combined effort with the military, trailed suspected kidnappers to their hideout following reported kidnapping incidents in Ibusa and Enu-Ani Mega City, Ogwashi-Uku,” Edafe stated.
He explained that the suspects engaged the security team in a gun duel upon sighting them.
“On sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, and our men responded professionally, leading to a gun battle,” he said.
Edafe disclosed that the superior firepower and tactical coordination of the security team resulted in the successful rescue of two female victims held captive by the gang.
“In the course of the operation, two female victims were rescued unhurt, while two members of the kidnapping syndicate sustained gunshot injuries,” he added.
The injured suspects were subsequently taken to the hospital, where they were confirmed dead.
“The wounded suspects were taken to the hospital but were later confirmed dead by the doctor on duty,” Edafe noted.
The police spokesperson further revealed that significant exhibits were recovered at the scene, including a high-powered firearm, ammunition, and a large sum of money believed to be ransom.
“Recovered from the scene were one AK-47 rifle, nineteen rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and the sum of four million, two hundred thousand naira suspected to be part of ransom collected from victims,” he said.
He added that security operatives have launched an intensive manhunt for other fleeing members of the gang.
“A combing operation of the surrounding bushes is ongoing to recover additional arms and apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate,” Edafe stated.
Commending the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, praised the bravery and professionalism of the operatives and highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration.
“The Commissioner of Police commends the gallantry of our operatives and the support of the military. This operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and inter-agency synergy in combating violent crimes,” Edafe said.
Reassuring residents of sustained efforts to ensure safety across the state, the Command urged the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
“We remain resolute in our commitment to safeguarding lives and property. Members of the public are encouraged to continue to provide useful information that will aid ongoing operations,” he added.
