The Delta State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its ongoing intelligence-led operations against kidnapping and illegal arms trafficking, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects and the recovery of firearms and ammunition.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the Command disclosed that operatives of its tactical team based in Ughelli carried out a series of coordinated operations targeting criminal networks operating within and beyond the state.
According to the statement, on April 24, 2026, at about 6:30pm., operatives acting on credible intelligence apprehended a 22-year-old suspect, Ahmadu Usman, in the Ekuigbo area of Ughelli over his alleged involvement in a kidnapping syndicate terrorising commuters along the Ughelli–Warri Road.
Further investigation led to the arrest of another suspect, Haruna Abdullahi, 37, at a trailer park along the Warri–Sapele Road. One AK-47 rifle loaded with thirty-six rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition was recovered from the suspects.
Both individuals are currently in custody as investigations continue.
In a separate operation conducted on April 23, 2026, the Command’s tactical team also arrested a suspect linked to an inter-state gun-running and kidnapping network.
The suspect was apprehended alongside Haruna Jibrin, 30, a native of Plateau State, who was allegedly facilitating the movement of arms from Ughelli to Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Subsequent follow-up operations on April 24 led to the arrest of another accomplice, Isiyaku Adamu, 38, in Rivers State.
Police operatives recovered an additional AK-47 rifle intended for transportation, as well as a blue Toyota Corolla vehicle used in the operation.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for kidnapping and illegal arms proliferation.
He assured residents that sustained intelligence-driven operations would continue to dismantle criminal networks and enhance public safety across the state.
The Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order, urging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
