The Delta State Police Command has recorded major breakthroughs in its war against kidnapping, armed robbery, arms trafficking, and cultism, killing one suspected kidnapper, arresting 77 others and rescuing five abducted victims within one month
Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, disclosed this on Wednesday in Asaba during a press briefing on the Command’s security operations between October and early November 2025.
He said the Command also recovered 13 firearms, 591 rounds of ammunition, three vehicles and ₦4.1 million ransom from criminal elements during the period under review.
According to the CP, police operatives in Obiaruku, assisted by vigilantes, stormed a forest in Obinomba community where armed kidnappers had taken a young woman after ambushing her and her brother on a motorcycle.
“In a gun duel, one suspect was fatally injured and later confirmed dead in the hospital. The female victim was rescued unhurt,” Abaniwonda stated, adding that an AK-47 rifle and 12 rounds of ammunition were recovered.
Acting on intelligence, operatives arrested a female suspect, identified as Jamila Abubakar, with ₦550,000 suspected to be ransom proceeds.
Further investigation led to the arrest of a notorious arms dealer, Ahmed Ibrahim, 31, who was linked to major kidnapping gangs and the 2024 murder of a kidnap victim in Ughelli North despite ransom payment.
“He has long been on our watchlist. We recovered 115 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, 220 rounds of SMG ammunition, and 32 live cartridges,” the CP said.
Operatives also arrested three kidnap suspects in Ihiala and Nnewi, Anambra State, recovering ₦4.1 million ransom paid for two kidnapped victims in Asaba.
“The suspects are in custody and investigation is ongoing,” Abaniwonda confirmed.
The command also recorded:arrest of a suspected armed robber with a locally made gun along Ughelli–Warri road.
Interception of a 62-year-old woman with 178 live cartridges in Bomadi.
Foiling of a kidnap attempt in Ubeji where seven suspects were arrested and three victims rescued.
Arrest of cult suspects linked to viral cult activity on WhatsApp, with guns and cartridges recovered.
Arrest of a gun runner with a fabricated pistol, pump-action gun and live ammunition on Asaba–Benin expressway.
Seizure of various firearms from suspected cultists and armed robbers in Ibusa and Sapele-Warri axis.
Arrest of drug syndicate operatives in Warri, recovering 450 bottles of codeine, tramadol and other narcotics.
Rescue of a kidnapped woman in Ovian Aladja after armed intruders invaded her family home.
The CP assured residents of sustained policing, urging them to report suspicious activities.
“We will not relent. Deltans must remain vigilant and support policing efforts by providing credible information,” he said.
He listed the control room line for emergency reports: 08036684974
Summary of Achievements
Arrested suspects: 77
Rescued kidnapped victims: 5
Firearms recovered: 13
Ammunition & cartridges: 591
Vehicles recovered: 3
Ransom recovered: ₦4.1 million
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