The Delta State Police Command has successfully rescued three kidnapped persons, apprehended a suspected kidnapper, and recovered an AK-47 rifle after a gun duel in Issele-Uku, located in the Anioma North Local Government Area of the state.
The operation was initiated following a report of abduction lodged at the Issele-Uku Police Division on March 16, 2026.
Acting swiftly on the information, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Aderemi Badiru, coordinated efforts with the military, local vigilante groups, and hunters to launch a search-and-rescue mission across identified hideouts in the surrounding forest.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Bright Edafe, stated that the operation led to a fierce exchange of gunfire between security personnel and members of the suspected kidnapping gang.
He noted that one of the suspects sustained fatal injuries during the confrontation, while the three abducted victims were rescued without harm and have since been reunited with their families.
He added that continued combing of the area resulted in the arrest of a 22-year-old suspect, Ahmadu Hassan, from Kange Village in Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, who was found with gunshot wounds.
Edafe further disclosed that security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with four rounds of live ammunition during a search of the scene.
According to him, the suspect who was fatally wounded during the gunfight later died, and his remains have been deposited in a mortuary.
The arrested suspect, who is currently receiving medical treatment under police custody, is assisting with ongoing investigations.
He said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang who fled during the encounter.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Aina Adesola, praised the bravery and collaboration demonstrated by the police and other security agencies involved in the operation.
He reiterated the Command’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements and called on residents to continue providing timely and reliable information to support security efforts.
