The Delta State Police Command says its officers killed four kidnap suspects, arrested others, while four victims were rescued in different operations in Ughelli and Kokori areas of the state.
Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Edafe Bright, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Ughelli Area Command.
“On November 24, 2024, officers of the special assignment team raided a kidnappers’ hideout along the Otokutu Road, Iyede. The gang, responsible for several abductions in Ughelli, including a case involving a N5million ransom, opened fire on the operatives.
“Two suspects were fatally wounded in the gunfight and later died in the hospital. Recovered items included a pump-action gun, a Beretta pistol, a cut-to-size gun, and six live cartridges.
“Earlier, on November 11, 2024, a joint operation by Abraka Police Division and local hunters led to the rescue of two boys abducted in Kokori-Samagidi bush, Ethiope East Local Government Area.
“One kidnapper was killed during a shootout, while the remaining suspects fled. Two AK-47 rifles were recovered, and the victims were safely reunited with their families.
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“In another breakthrough on November 18, 2024, police operatives arrested Godstime Ajugba (41), a notorious kidnapper in Ughelli.
“His confession led to the discovery of a criminal hideout in Mosogar Town, where another suspect was apprehended, and a significant cache of weapons, including two AK-47 rifles, a K2 rifle, and over 100 rounds of ammunition, was recovered,” the police image-maker disclosed.
The police spokesman praised the officers involved in the various operations for their dedication to duty and reassured the public of the command’s commitment to ensuring safety throughout the state.
“These operations demonstrate our determination to rid Delta State of criminal elements and secure the lives of our residents. We urge citizens to report suspicious activities to help us sustain these gains,” he said.
Meanwhile, as the festive season approaches, the state police command has pledged to intensify patrols and surveillance to ensure a peaceful celebration for all.
