Gun Battle Ends In Victory As Police Foil Kidnap Ring In Delta

Dramatic Midnight Operation

OPERATIVES of the Nigeria Police Force engaged suspected kidnappers in a late-night gun battle in Delta State, resulting in the rescue of two victims and the recovery of ₦4.2 million believed to be ransom.

The operation, carried out in the early hours of 9 April 2026, was led by the Delta State Command under Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi.

Intelligence-Led Strike on Criminal Hideout

According to Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, the mission was based on credible intelligence and executed in collaboration with military personnel.

At about 12:40 a.m., operatives from the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad stormed a suspected hideout along Obulu-Uku Power Line, following reports of abductions in Ibusa and Ogwashi-Uku areas.

Gun Duel and Rescue Operation

Police said the suspects opened fire on sighting the operatives, prompting a fierce exchange of gunfire.

“The operatives responded professionally,” the police statement noted.

At the end of the confrontation, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded, while two female victims were rescued unharmed. The injured suspects later died at the hospital.

Weapons and Ransom Recovered

Security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle, 19 rounds of live ammunition, and ₦4.2 million suspected to be ransom proceeds from the scene.

Authorities say the recovery underscores the scale of the criminal operation and the success of the intervention.

Ongoing Manhunt for Fleeing Suspects

Following the operation, security forces launched a combing exercise in nearby bushes to track down other members of the gang believed to have escaped during the raid.

Police Reassure Residents

CP Oyeniyi commended the courage of the operatives and emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration in combating violent crimes.

He assured residents that the command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property while sustaining pressure on criminal elements.

The police also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information, noting that intelligence sharing is key to successful security operations.