In a decisive and deadly operation, operatives of the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Unit have neutralized four suspected kidnappers along the Issele-Uku axis.
The gang is believed to be responsible for the recent abduction of a medical doctor, for whom a ransom of N15 million was paid.
This successful sting comes after weeks of intelligence gathering and tactical surveillance.
A teaser by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Edafe Bright disclosed that the operation not only dismantled a dangerous criminal cell but also sent a strong message to other terror gangs operating in the region.
According to the police image maker the four suspected members of the notorious kidnapping gang met their end yesterday Friday April 11, 2025, in a fierce gun duel with police operatives in a forest near Issele-Uku, Delta State.
The deadly encounter followed the arrest of Abubakar Usman, alias “Shehu,” the suspected gang leader believed to be responsible for a string of high-profile kidnappings in the region, including the abduction of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku on April 6, 2025, and the kidnap and murder of a realtor, Esther Ojoh.
Acting on intelligence gathered after Usman’s arrest, operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) led by ASP Julius Robinson raided the gang’s hideout around 11:00 a.m. on April 11.
However, during the operation, Usman reportedly raised an alarm and attempted to escape, alerting his armed associates who opened fire on the team.
In the ensuing gun battle, four suspects, among them Usman, sustained fatal gunshot wounds. They were rushed to the General Hospital in Ogwashi-Uku but were pronounced dead on arrival.
Police recovered three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition from the scene.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, praised the courage and professionalism of the officers involved, encouraging others to emulate their dedication.
He also thanked residents for their continued cooperation and assured the public that the command remains committed to ridding the state of criminal elements.
The operation marks a significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping in Delta State, particularly in Asaba, Ogwashi-Uku, Ubuluku, and surrounding areas, where residents have long lived under the threat of organized abductions.
