Security operatives in Delta State have disrupted a suspected kidnapping plot in Upper Agbarho, forcing armed men to flee after a late night gun battle and abandon high calibre firearms and live ammunition.
The Delta State Police Command confirmed the operation in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright. He said the success followed actionable intelligence that revealed a group of armed suspects had gathered along a bush path in Upper Agbarho, allegedly making final preparations for a kidnap operation.
According to the police, operatives of the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team acted swiftly on the intelligence. Led by ASP Julius Robinson and supported by community vigilantes, the team moved into the area at about 9:35 pm on Saturday, January 11, 2026, and quietly cordoned off an uncompleted building believed to be the suspects’ hideout.
Bright said the suspects opened fire immediately they sighted the operatives, prompting a gun duel. The police team responded decisively, overpowering the attackers and forcing them to flee into the surrounding bushes with gunshot injuries. In their haste, the hoodlums abandoned their weapons and other items believed to be linked to planned criminal activity.
Recovered from the scene were one FNC rifle loaded with a live round of ammunition and one pump action gun containing thirty two live cartridges. All exhibits have since been secured as investigation continues.
Read also:
- Itsekiri Nation crisis escalate as Police summon top Chiefs over murder-linked communal feud
- Force headquarters summons DPO for falsely accusing a Good Samaritan of murder
- Unidentified Woman’s Corpse found at Ekpan Express Junction sparks fear, outrage
The police said a manhunt has been launched to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects, assuring residents that the Command remains committed to dismantling kidnapping networks operating within the state.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, praised the operatives for their professionalism, courage and effective use of intelligence. He stressed that the Command would not allow criminal elements to gain a foothold anywhere in the state.
CP Adesola warned that Delta State would remain hostile territory for kidnappers, armed robbers and other violent offenders. He also called on residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information, noting that community cooperation remains vital to sustaining recent security gains.
