The Delta State Police Command has recorded major operational successes following the dismantling of a kidnapping syndicate and the recovery of firearms and ammunition in separate operations across the state.
The operations were carried out under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, as part of intensified efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
Kidnap Syndicate Dismantled
In a significant breakthrough in Ughelli and surrounding communities, three suspected kidnappers were apprehended and have led police operatives to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and live ammunition.
The suspects; Usman Ayuba (22) of Iyede Community; Ibrahim Abubakar (22) of Akwa Ibom State; and Haruna Dahiru, alias “Bodere” (23), also of Iyede Community were initially handed over by the Area Commander, Ughelli.
Following detailed interrogation by operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), they provided actionable intelligence that resulted in further recoveries.
On February 26, 2026, at about 8:10 p.m., the suspects guided officers to a bush along the Iyede axis where a magazine loaded with 25 rounds of live ammunition was recovered. The following day, at about 3:45 p.m., they led the team to their hideout within the same area, where an AK-47 rifle was retrieved.
Police said the suspects were positively identified by a female victim who was abducted on February 4, 2026, at Olu Avenue, Ughelli, and released three days later after a ransom of ₦2 million was paid.
The suspects remain in police custody, and investigations are ongoing.
Armed Suspect Arrested Near University
In a separate operation on February 27, 2026, at about 5:00 a.m., operatives of the Dragon Patrol Team intercepted a 55-year-old suspect, Shuabu Adams, during a routine stop-and-search operation along the Abraka-Oghara axis near Western Delta University.
A search of the suspect revealed a locally made cut-to-size gun concealed inside a pullover bag and loaded with two live cartridges. He was immediately arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Security
Commending the gallantry, discipline and professionalism of the operatives involved, CP Adesola reiterated the Command’s resolve to ensure that Delta State does not serve as a safe haven for kidnappers, gun runners or other criminal elements.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies, emphasizing that community partnership remains vital in the collective fight against crime.
