Police kill kidnapper, recover weapon in Delta

In a significant operation against criminal elements plaguing Delta State, operatives of the State Anti-Kidnapping Unit (SAKU) have successfully neutralized a suspected kidnapper and recovered a crucial weapon. Acting on intelligence, the police, supported by local security volunteers, tracked a kidnapping syndicate to their hideout in the Ubulu-Okiti forest axis. This syndicate is believed to be responsible for a series of kidnappings in Ubuluku, Ubulu-Okiti, Issele-Uku, and surrounding communities, areas that have unfortunately become targets for such criminal activities.

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Acting on intelligence gathered during ongoing investigations into recent kidnapping incidents within the State, operatives of SAKU, in the early hours of 18 May 2026, trailed suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate to their hideout in the Ubulu-Okiti forest axis.

The confrontation that ensued highlights the bravery and professionalism of the Delta State Police. When confronted by the suspects, the operatives responded with superior firepower, leading to one suspect sustaining serious injuries. While this individual later died in a hospital, the others managed to escape into the dense forest, albeit likely injured. The recovery of an AK-47 rifle loaded with ammunition, along with suspected criminal charms, provides tangible evidence of the syndicate's dangerous capabilities and their reliance on both weaponry and superstition.

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Upon arrival at the forest hideout, the suspects opened fire on the operatives. The team responded professionally with superior firepower, during which one of the suspected kidnappers sustained serious gunshot injuries, while others escaped into the forest with varying degrees of injuries.

The Delta State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, has assured the public that a combing operation is underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover any further exhibits. This operation is part of a broader strategy to guarantee the safety of lives and property across the state. The command's appeal to residents for vigilance and timely, credible information is crucial, as community cooperation is vital in combating crime. This successful operation, mirroring a similar one in Ogun State where two kidnappers were killed, demonstrates a concerted effort by law enforcement agencies to tackle the persistent menace of kidnapping in Nigeria. From a local perspective, such successes are vital for restoring confidence and ensuring the security of daily life, which is often disrupted by the fear of such criminal enterprises.

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Recovered from the scene were one AK-47 rifle loaded with five rounds of live ammunition, as well as suspected criminal charms.