The Delta State Police Command has recovered ₦4.2 million suspected to be ransom proceeds during a gun battle with suspected kidnappers, leading to the death of two members of the gang and the rescue of two victims.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, noting that the breakthrough followed an intelligence-led operation carried out in collaboration with the military.
According to the statement, operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad, acting on credible intelligence, trailed the suspects to their hideout along the Obulu-Uku Power Line in the early hours of April 9, 2026.
The operation was linked to recent kidnapping incidents reported in Ibusa and Enu-Ani Mega City in Ogwashi-Uku.
Edafe said the suspects engaged the operatives in a gun duel upon sighting them, but were overpowered by the superior firepower of the joint security team.
“As a result of the operation, two female kidnap victims were successfully rescued unhurt, while two members of the kidnapping syndicate sustained fatal gunshot injuries,” he said.
Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 rifle, nineteen rounds of ammunition, and the sum of ₦4.2 million believed to be part of ransom collected from victims.
The police spokesperson added that the injured suspects were taken to a hospital where they were later confirmed dead.
He noted that a manhunt is ongoing for other fleeing members of the gang, while efforts are also being intensified to recover more weapons possibly hidden in the surrounding bushes.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the operatives and the military for their professionalism and bravery.
He emphasised that sustained collaboration among security agencies remains crucial in the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Oyeniyi also assured residents of the Command’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
