The Delta State Police Command has recorded another breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on kidnapping and violent crimes following the death of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of an AK-47 rifle during a coordinated security operation in the state.
The operation, carried out by operatives of the State Anti-Kidnapping Unit (SAKU) in collaboration with local security volunteers, took place in the early hours of May 18, 2026, around the Ubulu-Okiti forest axis.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, the operation followed intelligence gathered during investigations into recent kidnapping activities within parts of the state.
Police said the operatives traced suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate to a forest hideout believed to be linked to several abduction incidents reported in Ubuluku, Ubulu-Okiti, Issele-Uku and neighbouring communities.
The statement disclosed that upon arriving at the location, the suspects allegedly opened fire on the security team, leading to a gun battle between the operatives and the suspected criminals.
“The team responded professionally with superior firepower, during which one of the suspected kidnappers sustained serious gunshot injuries, while others escaped into the forest with varying degrees of injuries,” the statement noted.
Security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with five rounds of live ammunition from the scene. Police also said suspected criminal charms were recovered during the operation.
The injured suspect was reportedly rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment but was later confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.
The Command further disclosed that a comprehensive combing operation is currently ongoing across the forest and adjoining areas to track down and arrest the fleeing members of the syndicate, as well as recover additional weapons and exhibits.
Reacting to the development, 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-led policing and sustained security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating across the state.
The Police Commissioner also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information that could aid ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crimes.
“The Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents across Delta State, and all operational strategies are being intensified to tackle criminal activities,” the statement added.
The latest operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Delta State Police Command to curb rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity within parts of the state.
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