Operatives of the Delta State Police Command’s State Anti-Kidnapping Unit have killed a suspected kidnapper during a gunfight in a forest hideout.
The command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, May 19. He said the operation was carried out in the early hours of Monday, May 18, in collaboration with local security volunteers.
According to the statement, the operation followed intelligence gathered during investigations into recent kidnapping incidents across the state. Detectives reportedly tracked suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate to their hideout in the Ubulu-Okiti forest area.
The police said the gang is believed to be responsible for several kidnapping operations in Ubuluku, Ubulu-Okiti, Issele-Uku, and neighbouring communities.
The statement added that upon reaching the forest camp, the suspects opened fire on the operatives, prompting the officers to respond with superior firepower. During the exchange, one of the suspected kidnappers sustained severe gunshot injuries, while others escaped into the forest with varying degrees of injuries.
Items recovered from the scene included an AK-47 rifle loaded with five rounds of live ammunition and suspected criminal charms.
Edafe stated that the injured suspect was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was later confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.
He further revealed that security operatives have launched a manhunt and combing operation in the forest and surrounding areas to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional exhibits linked to the gang.
The command also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to law enforcement agencies, assuring the public that proactive measures are being intensified to safeguard lives and property across Delta State.
