The Delta State Police Command has announced fresh breakthroughs in its ongoing crackdown on kidnapping, armed robbery, and illegal arms trafficking across the state, with the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of weapons in separate intelligence-driven operations.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the police said operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) arrested a 45-year-old suspect, Shehu Malami, at Ogor Market in Ughelli on April 29, 2026, at about 8:10 p.m.
According to the command, the arrest followed actionable intelligence, after which the suspect reportedly led officers to his hideout in Agbarha-Otor.
A search of the location led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and 63 rounds of live ammunition.
Preliminary investigations, police said, linked Malami to a kidnapping syndicate operating across Ughelli, Agbarho, Sapele, Warri, and surrounding areas.
Authorities added that efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the gang.
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In a separate operation on May 2, 2026, police officers recovered another AK-47 rifle, a Beretta pistol, and six rounds of live ammunition in a bush near the Customs checkpoint, along the Benin–Asaba Expressway.
The police said no arrests have been made in connection with the second recovery, but investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Reacting to the developments, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Yemi Oyeniyi, reiterated the command’s resolve to sustain pressure on criminal elements operating within the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, assuring that all information provided would be handled with strict confidentiality.
The police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, who signed the statement, said the operations underscore the command’s commitment to improving security and dismantling criminal networks in Delta State.
