Police Smash Kidnap Syndicate in Delta, Recover AK-47 Rifle, Ammunition

Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have dismantled a suspected kidnap syndicate operating in the Ughelli North Local Government Area, arresting three suspects and recovering an AK-47 rifle and live ammunition.

The breakthrough was achieved by the CP-Special Assignment Team under the command of Commissioner of Police Aina Adesola, during an operation in a bush along the Iyede axis.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, made available to journalists in Warri on Saturday, the suspects were initially handed over to the team by the Area Commander in Ughelli following intelligence-led operations in the area.

The suspects were identified as Usman Ayuba, 22, of Iyede Community; Ibrahim Abubakar, 22, of Akwa Ibom State; and Haruna Dahiru, also known as Bodere, 23, also of Iyede Community.

Edafe explained that during interrogation, the suspects provided useful information that led to further recoveries.

“On 26 February 2026, at about 2010hrs, the suspects led operatives to a bush along the Iyede axis where a magazine loaded with twenty-five rounds of live ammunition was recovered. On 27 February 2026, at about 1545hrs, the suspects again took the team to their hideout within the same area where one AK-47 rifle was recovered,” the statement read.

The police spokesman added that the suspects were positively identified by a female victim who was abducted on February 4, 2026, along Olu Avenue, Ughelli. The victim was held captive for three days and released only after a ransom of two million naira was paid.

The suspects are currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing.

Dragon Patrol Team Arrests Suspect with Locally Made Gun

In a separate incident, operatives of the Dragon Patrol Team attached to the Abraka-Oghara axis arrested a 55-year-old man during a stop-and-search operation near Western Delta University.

The suspect, Shuabu Adams, was intercepted at about 5 a.m. on February 27, 2026. A search of his belongings led to the recovery of a locally made cut-to-size gun concealed inside a pullover bag and loaded with two live cartridges.

The suspect has been taken into custody, and investigations are underway.

CP Adesola Commends Operatives, Seeks Public Support

Commissioner of Police Aina Adesola commended the operatives involved in both operations for their gallantry, discipline, and professionalism.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining the fight against crime, stating that Delta State will not serve as a safe haven for kidnappers, gun runners, or drug traffickers.

The CP also appealed to residents to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies, noting that community partnership remains a critical pillar in the collective fight against crime.