Delta Police Kill Suspected Kidnapper, Recover AK-47 In Forest Raid

The Delta State Police Command has said its operatives have killed a suspected kidnapper and recovered an AK-47 rifle during a forest operation in the state.

The Command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, noting that the operation was carried out by operatives of the State Anti-Kidnapping Unit (SAKU) in collaboration with local security volunteers.

According to him, the operation followed credible intelligence on recent kidnapping activities in parts of the state, leading operatives to a forest hideout along the Ubulu-Okiti axis.

The gang was said to be linked to a series of kidnappings in Ubuluku, Ubulu-Okiti, Issele-Uku and adjoining communities.

Edafe stated that the suspects engaged the operatives in a gun duel upon sighting them, adding that one of the suspects was neutralised during the exchange while others escaped with gunshot injuries.

He said an AK-47 rifle loaded with five rounds of live ammunition, as well as suspected charms, were recovered from the scene.

According to him, the injured suspect was later confirmed dead at a hospital, while efforts were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang.

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He added that the Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the operatives for their professionalism and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful information.

The police spokesman assured that operations had been intensified to rid the state of criminal elements.