Operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad of the Delta State Police Command have successfully rescued five victims kidnapped a week ago from the Elyon Paradise Ministry in Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of the state.
The victims, who were abducted during a night vigil service at the church on February 22, 2025, were freed unhurt following a well-coordinated police raid on their captors’ hideout in Ubuluku forest.
According to SP Edafe Bright, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Delta State Command, in an official press release on Friday 28th February, 2025, the swift and tactical response, initiated by the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, led to the successful rescue of the victim.
He revealed that the CP’s directive also included relocating operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad to the area with an explicit mandate: to ensure the safe rescue of the hostages.
He said, “On February 25, 2025, the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad, led by CSP Labe Joseph, launched a sting operation in collaboration with members of the Ubuluku community vigilante group and concerned residents. Acting on intelligence, the operatives stormed the Ubuluku forest, where the victims were being held hostage.
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“As the security forces approached, the suspected kidnappers, realizing they were surrounded, engaged the police in a fierce gun battle. However, they were unable to withstand the superior firepower of the police and were forced to abandon the victims before fleeing into the dense forest.
“All five kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed and have since been reunited with their families.
“During the operation, security operatives recovered thirteen rounds of expended cartridges and a bag containing ₦1,300,000, which is suspected to be ransom money. The police have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects, with intelligence efforts being intensified to track down and bring them to justice.
“The successful rescue mission was lauded by CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, who praised the gallantry and dedication of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad. He also acknowledged the resilience of the Ubuluku community vigilantes and concerned residents, including human rights activists who joined the police in the perilous operation.
“The police have assured residents of Delta State that efforts will not relent in ensuring the safety of lives and property. Meanwhile, investigations into the incident continue as authorities intensify the search for the perpetrators.”
