In a major breakthrough against organized crime, the Delta State Police Command has dismantled a kidnapping syndicate operating out of the dense forests of Ogwashi-Ukwu in Oshimili North, arresting five suspects and recovering a ransom sum of ₦5 million.
The operation, led by the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cybercrime Squad under CSP Godwin Osadolor, was carried out in the early hours of Saturday, July 12.
Acting on intelligence, the tactical team stormed the gang’s forest hideout around 6:30 a.m., apprehending Sanusi Abdulahi with a substantial portion of ransom funds allegedly extorted from one of their recent victims.
According to the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the arrested suspects are believed to be linked to a string of high-profile kidnappings across several towns including Ibusa, Obulu-Okiti, Isele-Ukwu, and most recently, the July 9 abduction of a young woman in Ogwashi-Ukwu.
Following Abdulahi’s arrest, he reportedly led officers to a second hideout in the Oko area of Asaba, where four additional gang members were captured.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are confident the syndicate’s operations have been significantly disrupted.
In a separate but related incident, another sting operation was carried out on July 9 along the Patani-Ughelli Expressway.
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The CP-Special Assignment Team raided the base of a feared gang led by one Solomon Danisco, also known as “Picolo,” and his associates.
A violent shootout ensued, during which several suspects sustained fatal injuries. Six were pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, while two remain under treatment.
The police recovered four locally crafted firearms and 19 live cartridges from the scene.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, praised the efforts of the operatives and urged continued cooperation from residents.
The Command also reminded the public of its 24-hour emergency hotlines: 08036684974, 08114895600, and 08025666914.
As kidnapping rings face growing pressure from intensified police operations, authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order across the region.