Two kidnapping suspects were fatally shot and arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-crime Squad of the Delta State Police Command in a combined effort with the military in Obulu-uku area of the state.
The team rescued two female victims and recovered N4.2 million cash suspected to be ransom collected from victims.
This was disclosed in a statement by the command’s spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, on Thursday night.
According to the statement, the team engaging In a coordinated intelligence-led operation trailed suspected kidnappers to their hideout along Obulu-Uku Power Line, following a reported kidnapping incident in Ibusa and Enu-Ani Mega City, Ogwashi-Uku.
“On sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, leading to a gun duel.
“The operatives responded professionally, resulting in the rescue of two female victims, while two members of the kidnapping syndicate were fatally wounded,” the statement read in part.
Edafe explained that the combined team recovered one AK-47 rifle, 19 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, N4.2 million cash suspected to part of the ransom collected from victims from the scene of the incident.
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He noted that a combing operation of the surrounding bushes is ongoing with a view to recovering additional arms and apprehending fleeing members of the gang.
“The injured suspects were taken to the hospital where they were confirmed dead by the doctor on duty,” he added.
Edafe described the operation as a major breakthrough in the command’s sustained crackdown on kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives and the support of the military, noting that such inter-agency collaboration remains critical in tackling violent crimes.
He reassured residents that the command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged members of the public to continue to provide credible and timely information to the police.