Security operatives during a forest search-and-rescue operation in Delta State following a kidnapping incident.
The Delta State Police Command says it has dismantled a kidnap syndicate and rescued three victims during a coordinated security operation in a forest near Issele-Uku.
Police said the operation followed a kidnapping report received by the Issele-Uku Division on March 16, 2026.
In a statement on Wednesday, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said officers, led by Divisional Police Officer CSP Aderemi Badiru, worked with the military, local vigilantes and hunters to launch a search-and-rescue mission.
“Sequel to the report, the Divisional Police Officer… in collaboration with the military, local vigilante groups, and hunters, swiftly mobilised and launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation, combing identified hideouts within the surrounding bush,” Edafe said.
He added that the operation led to an exchange of gunfire between security operatives and suspected kidnappers.
“During the encounter, one of the suspects was fatally wounded, while the three victims were rescued unharmed and have since been safely reunited with their families,” he said.
Police said further search operations in the area led to the arrest of a 22-year-old suspect, Ahmadu Hassan, from Kange Village in Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. He was found with gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment in police custody.
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“A further search of the area resulted in the recovery of one AK-47 rifle loaded with four rounds of live ammunition,” Edafe added.
He confirmed that another suspect who sustained gunshot injuries during the operation later died, and the body has been deposited in a mortuary.
The police said efforts are ongoing to track and arrest other fleeing members of the syndicate.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Aina Adesola, commended the operation, praising what he described as the “gallantry and synergy displayed by the operatives and partner security outfits.”
He also reaffirmed the Command’s “unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks across the State” and urged residents to provide timely and credible information to support security efforts.
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