Police Nab Suspected Kidnapper, Recover AK-47 Rifles, Pistol in Delta

By Our Reporter

Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have recorded fresh successes in the fight against kidnapping, armed robbery, and illegal arms proliferation, with the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of multiple firearms and ammunition across the state.

The Police, in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe on Saturday, disclosed that the breakthrough followed intelligence-led operations carried out in different parts of Delta.

According to the statement, operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) on April 29, 2026, arrested a 45-year-old suspect, Shehu Malami, at Ogor Market in Ughelli. The suspect reportedly led police operatives to his hideout in Agbarha-Otor, where one AK-47 rifle and 63 rounds of live ammunition were recovered.

Preliminary investigations revealed that Malami is a member of a kidnapping syndicate terrorising Ughelli, Agbarho, Sapele, Warri and other parts of the state. Police say efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.

In a related development, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, acting on credible intelligence, led a joint team of operatives from Buffalo, Crack, and Operation Delta Shield units to a bush near the Customs Checkpoint along the Benin–Asaba Expressway on May 2, 2026.

A thorough search of the area resulted in the recovery of another AK-47 rifle, a Beretta pistol, and six rounds of live ammunition. Authorities say investigations are ongoing to track down those connected to the weapons.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the command’s resolve to sustain the crackdown on criminal elements across the state. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, assuring that all information provided would be treated with strict confidentiality.