Police Neutralise Suspected Kidnapper, Recover AK-47 Rifle in Delta Forest Operation

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Delta State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its ongoing fight against 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 Ubulu-Okiti forest axis of the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Bright Edafe, operatives of the State Anti-Kidnapping Unit (SAKU), working in collaboration with local security volunteers, carried out the operation in the early hours of May 18, 2026, based on credible intelligence gathered from ongoing investigations into recent kidnapping incidents across the state.

Police investigations reportedly linked the gang to a series of abductions carried out in Ubuluku, Ubulu-Okiti, Issele-Uku, and neighbouring communities.

The statement disclosed that the operatives trailed members of the suspected kidnapping syndicate to their hideout deep within the forest. However, upon arrival, the suspects allegedly opened fire on the security team, prompting a gun duel.

“The operatives responded professionally with superior firepower,” the statement noted, adding that one of the suspected kidnappers sustained serious gunshot injuries during the exchange, while other gang members escaped into the forest with varying degrees of injuries.

Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle loaded with five rounds of live ammunition, as well as suspected criminal charms believed to have been used by the gang.

The injured suspect was subsequently taken to a hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor.

Meanwhile, the Police Command said a comprehensive combing operation is ongoing across the forest and adjoining areas to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons or exhibits connected to the criminal network.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the bravery and professionalism displayed by the operatives during the operation.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven and community-based policing strategies aimed at dismantling criminal syndicates and improving security across Delta State.

The Command also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information, assuring the public that intensified operational measures are being implemented to safeguard lives and property throughout the state.