Delta Police Intensify Manhunt for Abductors of Sapele Local Government Chairman
The Delta State Police Command has launched a comprehensive manhunt targeting the kidnappers of Chief Bright Abeke, the chairman of Sapele Local Government Area. This urgent response follows a daring abduction that has escalated concerns over insecurity in the region, prompting swift action from law enforcement agencies.
Technical and Intelligence-Driven Anti-Kidnapping Deployment
In a strategic move, the police have deployed specialized technical and intelligence anti-kidnapping units to Sapele, leveraging advanced methodologies to trace the perpetrators. SP Bright Edafe, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed on Sunday that operatives are already making significant progress in the investigation, gathering useful information about the abductors.
Edafe stated, "We have deployed technical and intelligence anti-kidnapping units to Sapele and we are already getting useful information about the abductors. There has been no ransom demand yet, but we are optimistic that they will be fished out from their hideout soon. However, for the safety of the victim, we must be cautious in how we navigate and apprehend them."
Details of the Brazen Abduction Incident
The kidnapping occurred at approximately 7 p.m. on Friday, when no fewer than 15 heavily armed gunmen stormed Debro Fred Guest House along Owumi Road, where Chief Bright Abeke was reportedly lodged. The attackers arrived in a Range Rover SUV and two other vehicles, firing sporadically into the air to disperse residents and guests before whisking away their target to an unknown destination.
This brazen operation resulted in at least one casualty: a member of a local vigilante group, identified simply as Ufuoma, was shot during the attack. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, with his condition remaining uncertain as of press time, highlighting the violent nature of the incident.
Heightened Security Measures and Operational Leadership
In response, security presence has been significantly heightened across Sapele, with operatives mounting surveillance and cordoning off major entry and exit points to prevent the suspects from escaping. Demonstrating leadership and urgency, Commissioner of Police CP Yemi Oyeniyi undertook an on-the-ground operational visit to the locality to personally assess the situation and coordinate response efforts.
During his visit, CP Oyeniyi inspected key locations linked to the abduction, including the hotel where the incident occurred and Ogorode Waterside, where a vehicle believed to have been used by the kidnappers was recovered. This discovery is expected to aid ongoing intelligence gathering and forensic investigations, potentially leading to the perpetrators and securing the safe release of the abducted chairman.
Assurances to Family and Collaborative Efforts
CP Oyeniyi also paid a visit to the family of Chief Bright Abeke, meeting with his wife to offer assurances that the police command is doing everything within its capacity to ensure his safe and unharmed return. Additionally, he visited hospitals where victims injured during the attack are receiving treatment, underscoring a holistic approach to the crisis.
The Commissioner emphasised that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are working round the clock using credible intelligence to track down the suspects. The Police Command reassured residents of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, expressing confidence that the perpetrators would soon be apprehended and brought to justice.
