Operatives of the Delta State Police Command’s Special Assignment Team have neutralized four suspected kidnappers and arrested several others, including cultists and armed robbers, in a series of coordinated operations across the state. The raids led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, a fabricated Beretta pistol, and locally made firearms.

The operation followed the arrest of a suspect who was attempting to purchase AK-47 rifle ammunition at about 11:30 p.m. on March 9, 2025. During interrogation, the suspect disclosed the location where the rifle was hidden. Acting on this information, police operatives stormed a bush along the railway line in Agbarho, where they encountered armed gang members. The criminals engaged the police in a fierce gun battle, resulting in four suspects sustaining serious gunshot wounds. One AK-47 rifle with a magazine was recovered at the scene. The injured suspects were rushed to the General Hospital in Ughelli, where they were later confirmed dead. Their bodies have been deposited at the morgue, while efforts are ongoing to track down fleeing gang members.

On March 12, 2025, at about 11:00 a.m., a resident of Ibusa (name withheld) reported to the Ibusa Police Station that his friend's wife had been kidnapped on March 7, 2025. He further disclosed that he was the one who delivered the ransom and food supplies to the kidnappers. Acting on this information, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ibusa swiftly mobilized a team, including local vigilantes, to comb the bush where the victim had been held. During the operation, one suspect, identified as Abdulahi Isah, was apprehended. He is currently in custody as investigations continue.

In another operation on March 13, 2025, at about 6:30 a.m., police operatives launched a sting operation in the Agbogidi area of Warri South LGA, leading to the arrest of one Gideon Sunday, 34, who was riding a tricycle with an accomplice, Godstime Solomon, 27. Upon searching the tricycle, police discovered a locally made cut-to-size gun loaded with two live cartridges concealed in the engine compartment.

Later the same day, at about 10:15 a.m., another suspect, Junior Moses, 30, was arrested in Warri with a locally made gun and two live cartridges. Following their confessions, police operatives stormed Sapele town and arrested Great Odiete, 28, of Shell Road, Sapele, recovering a fabricated Beretta pistol. The suspects confessed to being members of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity. All arrested individuals and seized weapons are in police custody, with investigations ongoing.

Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended the proactive efforts of the police force and the cooperation of the public in combating crime. He assured residents that the command remains committed to reducing criminal activities to the barest minimum in the state.