Operatives of the Delta State Police Command’s Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) have gunned a notorious kidnapper, Bello Abubakar and four other members of his gang in a deadly gun battle that took place in a forest between Issele-Asagba and Otulu.
According to a statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, the operation took place on April 21, 2025, after intelligence reports pinpointed the location of the syndicate responsible for series of kidnappings across Ubuluku, Issel-Uku, Issele-Asagba, and other surrounding communities.
The operatives initially raided a hideout in the Agu-Amawbia Forest in Anambra State, where they recovered one AK-47 rifle and 132 rounds of live ammunition.
Further investigations led the team to a second hideout between Issele-Asagba and Otulu.
Upon arrival, the police team walked into an ambush as the heavily armed suspects opened fire. However, the operatives, prepared for confrontation, returned fire with precision.
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What followed was a fierce and prolonged exchange of gunfire that left the kidnappers outgunned and overwhelmed.
Unable to withstand the superior firepower of the police, the suspects fled in different directions, with many sustaining serious bullet wounds.
Five of the gang members, including their leader Bello Abubakar, were captured but later died from injuries sustained during the gunfight after being taken to a nearby hospital.
The police recovered two additional AK-47 rifles and 18 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition at the scene.
A manhunt has been launched for other gang members who managed to escape with gunshot wounds.
“This was a fierce confrontation, but our men stood their ground and emerged victorious,” said SP Edafe Bright, commending the bravery and professionalism of the CP-SAT operatives.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, assuring that the command remains fully committed to the fight against kidnapping and violent crimes across the state.
