The Delta State Police Command has recorded major operational successes in its ongoing crackdown on violent crime, dismantling a suspected kidnapping syndicate and recovering firearms and ammunition in separate operations across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, disclosed that the breakthroughs followed coordinated intelligence-led operations by tactical units under the command.
In a significant operation in Ughelli and surrounding communities, three suspected kidnappers earlier handed over by the Area Commander, Ughelli, were subjected to detailed interrogation by operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT). The suspects were identified as Usman Ayuba, 22, of Iyede Community; Ibrahim Abubakar, 22, of Akwa Ibom State; and Haruna Dahiru, alias “Bodere,” 23, also of Iyede Community.
According to the Command, the suspects provided actionable intelligence that led to the recovery of arms. On February 26, 2026, at about 8:10 p.m., they reportedly led operatives to a bush along the Iyede axis where a magazine loaded with 25 rounds of live ammunition was recovered. The following day, at about 3:45 p.m., the suspects guided officers to their hideout within the same area, resulting in the recovery of one AK-47 rifle.
Police said the suspects were positively identified by a female victim who was abducted on February 4, 2026, at Olu Avenue, Ughelli, and released three days later after a ransom of ₦2 million was paid. The suspects remain in custody while investigations continue.
In a separate operation on February 27, 2026, at about 5:00 a.m., operatives of the Dragon Patrol Team deployed along the Abraka–Oghara axis intercepted a 55-year-old suspect, Shuabu Adams, during a routine stop-and-search operation near Western Delta University.
A search of the suspect reportedly led to the recovery of a locally made cut-to-size firearm concealed in a pullover bag and loaded with two live cartridges. He was immediately arrested and is currently under investigation.
CP Adesola commended the gallantry, discipline, and professionalism of the officers involved, reiterating the Command’s resolve to sustain intelligence-driven operations aimed at safeguarding lives and property across the state.
He reiterates that Delta State will not serve as a safe haven for kidnappers, gun runners or drug traffickers. The Command urges residents to continue providing credible and timely information, as community partnership remains a critical pillar in the collective fight against crime.
