The Delta State Police Command has neutralized a suspected kidnapper and arrested a gun runner while making a recovery of arms and ammunition in the process.
According to a statement on Tuesday signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, “the special squad deployed by CP Abaniwonda Olufemi to Ughelli North LGA has been embarking on an intelligence-led policing strategy that has been paying off leading to the arrest of over nine suspected kidnappers and recovery of firearms.
“The team again recorded another major achievement on 16/5/2024 at about 0200hrs, when they stormed Inene Community in Ughellli North LGA, Delta State, on the trail of the leader of a dreaded kidnapping syndicate known as Joel Joseph, who is a native of Ekakpamre Community in Ughelli North LGA Delta State.
“The Suspect upon sighting the operatives opened fire on the operatives, and in the ensuing gun duel, the suspect sustained serious gunshot injuries and was taken to the General Hospital Ughelli where he died while receiving treatment.
“One AK47 Rifle loaded with ten (10) rounds of Live Ammunition was recovered from him. Efforts are being intensified to arrest other gang members as contained in the intel”.
Also in another development, Edafe said, “On 16/05/2024 at about 0945hrs, operatives of Safe Delta deployed to Head-Bridge, Asaba while they were on stop and search duty, intercepted a white Toyota Hiace Bus (REG. NO: AYB573XC), driven by one Friday Emmanuel, a 43yrs old male suspect from Morsogar, Ethiope-West LGA, Delta State.
“Upon subjecting the said vehicle to search, Eight Hundred and Seventy-Five rounds of Live Cartridges concealed in a sack wrapped with pieces of clothes were recovered. The suspect was arrested for further investigation, and the exhibit was impounded. Investigation is ongoing.”
The statement added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi reiterated that through these proactive measures being implemented, the Command will curb crime and further broaden the outreach of the police in creating a safe and secure environment for our communities.
The CP also encouraged the public without hesitation, to reach out to the police through available means and provide useful, timely, and credible information. 
