Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Delta State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on kidnapping and other violent crimes, after operatives of the State Anti‑Kidnapping Unit (SAKU) neutralised a suspected kidnapper and recovered an AK‑47 rifle during an early morning gun battle in the Ubulu‑Okiti forest axis. The operation, which took place in the early hours of Monday, 18 May 2026, was carried out in collaboration with local security volunteers and followed actionable intelligence gathered during investigations into recent abduction incidents across the state. According to a statement released on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the syndicate is believed to be responsible for a string of kidnappings in Ubuluku, Ubulu‑Okiti, Issele‑Uku and adjoining communities. The Command has since launched a comprehensive combing operation of the forest and surrounding areas to apprehend fleeing members of the gang and recover additional weapons and exhibits.
Upon arrival at the forest hideout, the suspected kidnappers opened fire on the operatives, triggering a fierce gun duel. The police team responded professionally with superior firepower, during which one of the suspected kidnappers sustained severe gunshot wounds. Other members of the syndicate fled deeper into the forest with varying degrees of gunshot injuries. Recovered from the scene were one AK‑47 rifle loaded with five rounds of live ammunition, as well as items believed to be used for spiritual protection, described by the police as suspected criminal charms. The injured suspect was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention, but was later confirmed dead by the medical doctor on duty.
The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the bravery, professionalism and tactical response of the operatives involved in the operation. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence‑driven and community‑based policing, and assured residents that all necessary operational strategies are being deployed to guarantee the safety of lives and property across the state. The police also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information that could aid ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes. The latest breakthrough forms part of a broader offensive by the Delta State Police Command, which has in recent months intensified operations against criminal networks operating in forested areas of the state.
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