The Delta State Police Command’s Special Assignment Team has killed five suspected kidnappers in a gun battle around Iyamuge, Otu-Jeremi, Warri, Ughelli, and environs.

Spokesperson for the command, Bright Edafe, who confirmed the killings yesterday, explained that some hoodlums suspected to be kidnappers, engaged the Police in a gun duel in the forest during which five of the hoodlums sustained gunshot injuries while others escaped.

According to Edafe, the injured suspects were taken to the hospital and later died while receiving treatment. He also hinted that the police operatives led by ASP Julius Robinson, acting on the gathered intelligence, trailed and arrested one Adamu Abubakar,‘m’ popularly known as ‘Dogo’.

He said Abubakar, the leader of a kidnapping syndicate at DSC roundabout Warri, had carried out kidnapping and other related crimes in Ughelli North Council and environs.

Edafe stated that other suspects were arrested on March 21, 2025, at about 11:00a.m,, after being interrogated by the team, and they are Abubakar Mohammed popularly known as ‘Chede’ and Mohammed Bellow at Otovwodo park in Ughelli North Local Council.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that suspects are allegedly responsible for a series of kidnappings and armed robberies around Iyamuge, Otu-Jeremi, Warri, Ughelli, and environs.

“Acting on the strength of their confessions, the suspects led the operatives to Iyamugo forest where their hidden weapons, which include one AK-47 rifle, one pump action gun, three locally made guns, two magazines, 60 rounds of Ak-47 live ammunition and 17 rounds of live cartridges were recovered,” he said.