Police, Kidnappers Exchange Gunfire, Neutralise 2 Hoodlums, Rescue Victims in Delta

The Delta State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in its ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crime, following a late-night operation that led to the rescue of two abducted victims and the death of two suspected kidnappers.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, the operation was carried out in the early hours of April 9 by operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad in collaboration with military personnel.

The coordinated, intelligence-driven mission targeted a suspected kidnappers’ hideout along the Obulu-Uku Power Line after reports of abductions in Ibusa and Ogwashi-Uku, including the Enu-Ani Mega City area.

Police said the suspects opened fire upon sighting security operatives, resulting in a gun battle. The operatives returned fire, leading to the fatal wounding of two members of the kidnapping syndicate. Two female victims were successfully rescued during the operation.

Items recovered at the scene included an AK-47 rifle, 19 rounds of live ammunition, and a total of ₦4.2 million believed to be ransom proceeds collected from victims. The injured suspects were taken to a hospital where they were later confirmed dead by medical personnel.

Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi praised the operatives for their courage and professionalism, highlighting the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling violent crime. He reassured residents of the Command’s continued commitment to ensuring safety and security across the state.

A follow-up operation is currently underway, with security forces combing nearby bushes to recover additional weapons and apprehend other members of the gang believed to have fled the scene.

The police also called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security efforts.