The Delta State Police Command has dismantled a suspected kidnap syndicate in Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government, rescuing three abducted victims and recovering an AK-47 rifle after a gun duel with the criminals.
The operation followed a kidnapping report received at the Issele-Uku Police Division on March 16.
Acting swiftly, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Aderemi Badiru, led a joint team comprising police operatives, military personnel, local vigilantes, and hunters into nearby bush paths identified as possible hideouts of the gang.
Police said the team encountered members of the syndicate, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
One of the suspects was fatally wounded during the confrontation, while the three victims were rescued unhurt and later reunited with their families.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Bright Edafe, said continued combing of the area led to the arrest of a suspect, Ahmadu Hassan, 22, from Kange Village in Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
Edafe said the suspect was apprehended with gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment under police custody.
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He added that a search of the area led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle loaded with four rounds of live ammunition.
According to the police spokesman, the body of the deceased suspect has been deposited in a mortuary, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang.
The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Aina Adesola, commended the operatives and collaborating security outfits for their bravery and coordination.
He reiterated the command’s resolve to rid the state of criminal elements and urged residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.
