Delta Security Forces Neutralize Kidnappers, Rescue Victims in Coordinated Operation
Security operatives in Delta State have achieved a significant breakthrough in the ongoing crackdown on kidnapping and violent crimes. A coordinated operation led to the rescue of two victims and the neutralization of suspected kidnappers, marking a pivotal moment in regional security efforts.
Joint Operation Details and Rescue Mission
Spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed that the operation was executed in the early hours of April 9, 2026. It involved a joint effort between the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad and military personnel, showcasing enhanced inter-agency collaboration.
According to Edafe, the intelligence-led mission commenced around 12:40 a.m. as security agencies tracked the suspected kidnappers to their hideout along the OUbulu-Uku Power Line. The suspects were linked to recent kidnapping incidents in Ibusa and the Enu-Ani Mega City axis of Ogwashi-Uku, highlighting their involvement in a broader criminal network.
Gun Duel and Successful Outcome
Upon sighting the approaching operatives, the suspects opened fire, prompting a fierce gun duel. The security team responded swiftly and professionally, overpowering the gang. As a result, two female victims were successfully rescued, while two members of the kidnapping syndicate sustained fatal gunshot injuries.
Items recovered from the scene include:
- One AK-47 rifle
- 19 rounds of AK-47 ammunition
- N4.2 million, believed to be part of ransom collected from victims
Edafe disclosed that a combing operation of the surrounding bushes is ongoing to recover additional weapons and apprehend fleeing members of the gang. The injured suspects were rushed to a hospital but were later confirmed dead by doctors.
Leadership Commendation and Public Appeal
Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives, as well as the support from the military. He emphasized that inter-agency collaboration remains crucial in tackling violent crimes and assured residents of the command's continued commitment to protecting lives and property.
Oyeniyi urged the public to support security agencies by providing credible and timely information to aid in crime prevention and offender apprehension.
Separate Murder Case and Arrest
In a related development, the police command arrested 32-year-old Alex Kehinde in connection with the alleged murder of an 80-year-old man in Asaba–Ogwashi, Aniocha South Local Council. The crime occurred on February 3, 2026, but the prime suspect was only recently apprehended in Lagos State following a technically-driven investigation.
Edafe explained that the victim was found lifeless in his residence after being suffocated by Kehinde and an accomplice identified simply as "Egbon," who remains at large. Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased had contracted the suspects for renovation work, paying them N200,000.
Details of the Murder and Ransom Scheme
Instead of performing the job, the suspects allegedly conspired to kidnap the victim. They took the elderly man upstairs in his home, attacked him, and covered his mouth with a mobile phone to prevent him from raising an alarm, leading to his suffocation.
After abandoning the victim, the suspects stole his motorcycle and mobile phone, selling the phone at Ogbeogonogo Market in Asaba for N30,000. In a further twist, they used the victim's SIM card to contact his son, falsely claiming a kidnapping and demanding a N2 million ransom, which the family paid. The suspects shared the ransom, with each receiving N1 million.
Confession and Ongoing Efforts
In his confession, Kehinde admitted to participating in the crime and disclosed that his accomplice suggested killing the victim. Edafe cautioned the public to exercise vigilance, particularly when dealing with unfamiliar persons, and to avoid isolated engagements that could expose them to danger.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and bring him to justice, underscoring the police's dedication to resolving such cases comprehensively.
