The Delta State Police Command has killed a suspected kidnapper and recovered an AK-47 rifle during a coordinated security operation in the state.

The command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, said the operation was carried out by operatives of the State Anti-Kidnapping Unit (SAKU) in collaboration with local security volunteers, acting on intelligence gathered from ongoing investigations into recent kidnapping incidents across the state.

The operation took place in the early hours of May 18, 2026, when operatives tracked suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate to a hideout in the Ubulu-Okiti forest. The gang is believed to be responsible for a series of abductions and other criminal activities in Ubuluku, Ubulu-Okiti, Issele-Uku and neighbouring communities.

Edafe said the suspects opened fire on security operatives upon their arrival at the forest camp, triggering a gun duel. Operatives returned fire and fatally wounded one suspect, while others fled deeper into the forest with gunshot wounds.

Security personnel recovered an AK-47 rifle loaded with five rounds of live ammunition, as well as suspected charms belonging to the gang members. The wounded suspect was taken to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead.

The command said a combing operation was under way across the forest and surrounding communities to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons or exhibits linked to the syndicate.

The Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the operatives for their bravery and professionalism. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-driven and community-based policing strategies aimed at dismantling criminal networks in the state, and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing operations. Oyeniyi assured citizens that efforts were being intensified to ensure the safety of lives and property across Delta State.