• Arrest suspect over killing of octogenarian 
Security operatives in  Delta State have recorded a significant breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on kidnapping and violent crimes, following a coordinated operation that led to the rescue of two victims and the killing of suspected kidnappers.
  
Spokesperson for the state police command, SP Bright Edafe, who confirmed that the operation was carried out in the early hours of April 9, 2026, through a joint effort involving the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad and the military.
 
According to him, the intelligence-led mission was launched about 12.40am as security agencies trailed suspected kidnappers to their hideout along the OUbulu-Uku Power Line. 
  
The suspects were linked to recent kidnapping incidents in Ibusa and the Enu-Ani Mega City axis of Ogwashi-Uku.
  
Edafe explained that upon sighting the approaching operatives, the suspects opened fire, prompting a gun duel. Them the security team responded swiftly and professionally, overpowering the gang.
  
“As a result of the operation, two female victims were successfully rescued, while two members of the kidnapping syndicate sustained fatal gunshot injuries,” he said.
  
Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 rifle, 19 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and N4.2 million, believed to be part of ransom collected from victims.
  
Edafe disclosed that a combing operation of the surrounding bushes was ongoing to recover additional weapons and apprehend fleeing members of the gang. 
  
The suspects were rushed to a hospital but were confirmed dead by doctors.
  
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police (CP) in the state,  Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives, as well as the support of the military in executing the operation.
  
He emphasised that inter-agency collaboration remains crucial in tackling violent crimes, and assured residents of the command’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property.
  
The police boss also urged the public to support security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could aid in preventing crime and apprehending offenders.

Also, the command  arrested a 32-year-old Alex Kehinde, in connection with the alleged murder of an 80-year-old man in Asaba–Ogwashi, Aniocha South Local Council of the state.
  
Edafe confirmed that  the crime occurred on February 3, 2026, but the prime suspect was only recently apprehended in Lagos State following a “technically-driven investigation.”
  
According to Edafe, the victim was found lifeless in his residence after being suffocated by the suspect and an accomplice identified simply as “Egbon”, mow at large.
  
Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased had planned to renovate his apartment and rent it out to tenants. He had reportedly contracted the suspect and his accomplice for the renovation work, and paid them N200,000.
  
However, rather than carry out the job, the suspects allegedly conspired to kidnap the victim.
  
Edafe explained that they took the elderly man upstairs in his home, where they attacked him and covered his mouth with a mobile phone to prevent him from raising alarm. 
 
The victim reportedly suffocated at the scene.
  
Instead of seeking medical help, the suspects allegedly abandoned the victim and proceeded to steal his motorcycle and mobile phone. 
  
The stolen phone was later sold at Ogbeogonogo Market in Asaba for N30,000.
  
In a further twist, the suspects reportedly removed the victim’s SIM card and used it to contact his son, falsely claiming that the man had been kidnapped. They subsequently demanded a ransom of N2 million, which the family paid.
  
Police said the suspects shared the ransom N1 million apiece.
  
Edafe cautioned the public to exercise vigilance, particularly when dealing with unfamiliar persons, stressing that individuals should avoid isolated engagements that could expose them to danger.
  
He noted that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and bring him to justice.
  
In his confession, Kehinde admitted to participating in the crime and disclosed that his accomplice, now on the run, suggested that the victim be killed.