The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the release of the Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Bright Abeke, who was abducted by armed gunmen in Sapele.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this on Tuesday in Asaba, stating that the council chairman regained his freedom after spending 10 days in captivity.

Abeke was reportedly kidnapped at about 7 p.m. on Friday last week when heavily armed assailants invaded a hotel where he was staying along Owumi Road in Sapele. The hotel was identified as Debro Fred Guest House.

According to sources, about 15 gunmen carried out the operation. The attackers were said to have arrived in a Range Rover SUV and two other vehicles before unleashing sporadic gunfire into the air, causing panic among residents and guests in the area.

The gunmen reportedly overpowered security around the premises and whisked the council boss away to an unknown destination before escaping.

Confirming his release, Edafe said no arrest had been made in connection with the abduction, adding that police operatives were intensifying efforts to track down those responsible.

He, however, did not disclose the circumstances surrounding Abeke’s freedom, including whether any ransom was paid.

“We have deployed technical and intelligence anti-kidnapping units to Sapele and we are already getting useful information about the abductors,” Edafe said.

“There has been no ransom demand yet, but we are optimistic that they will be fished out from their hideout soon.”

The State Police Command has assured residents that operations are ongoing to apprehend the suspects and strengthen security in Sapele and surrounding communities.

The abduction had triggered anxiety in Sapele and across Delta State, with residents expressing concern over rising incidents of kidnapping and violent crime in parts of the state.

The release of the council chairman is expected to bring relief to political associates, family members, and residents of Sapele Local Government Area, many of whom had awaited positive news since the incident.