Two Suspects Shot Dead as Delta Police, Military Engage Kidnappers in Gun Battle, Rescue Victims

Operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and cyber-crime squad of the Delta State Police Command, have rescued two female kidnap victims following a gun battle with their captors.

However, two members of the suspected kidnapping syndicate were fatally wounded and rushed to the hospital where doctors confirmed them dead.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe who confirmed this in a statement, on Thursday, said that the police squad in a coordinated intelligence-led operation, in collaboration with the military, on April 9, 2026, trailed the suspects to their hideout along Obulu-Uku Power Line, following a reported kidnapping incident in Ibusa and Enu-Ani Mega City, Ogwashi-Uku.

He disclosed that the suspects, on sighting the operatives, opened fire on them and in an ensuing gun duel, two members of the kidnapping syndicate were fatally wounded.

Edafe said that the operatives responded professionally, resulting in the rescue of the two female victims.

He said that the injured suspects were subsequently taken to the hospital where they were confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.

Items recovered from the scene were one AK-47 rifle, nineteen rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and four million, two hundred thousand naira suspected to part of the ransom collected from victims.

A combing operation of the surrounding bushes is ongoing with a view to recovering additional arms and apprehending fleeing members of the gang, he added.

The State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, in his remarks commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives and the support of the military, noting that such inter-agency collaboration remains critical in tackling violent crimes.

He reassured residents that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urges members of the public to continue to provide credible and timely information to the Police.