An intelligence-driven security operation has neutralized the kidnap gang linked to the murder of a palm wine tapper in Delta State, bringing an end to a violent streak that spanned several communities across Delta and Edo States.
According to the Safe City Volunteer Foundation led by Harrison Gwamnishu, the operation was executed earlier today following days of coordinated surveillance and tracking by the Safe City Hydra intelligence team.
The gang had been trailed from Auchi to Ekpoma, before diverting toward Uromi/Ewohimi. Their movements eventually led them into Igbodo, Delta State, where they reportedly abducted a woman and collected ransom.
The victim has since identified the attackers.
The same criminal group had, just a week earlier, kidnapped a man in Emuhu, Delta State, before abducting two palm wine tappers. One victim was killed after his family failed to meet the ransom demand. The suspects were said to have fled through Abavo before escaping into Urhonigbe in Edo North, using the railway corridor as their escape route.
Four days ago, operatives deployed to Obiaruku, Delta State, received critical support from the Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government, Hon. (Barr.) Possible Ajede, who assigned officers from the State Command SACU unit alongside two civilian anti-cult operatives to reinforce the mission.
After multiple rounds of aerial surveillance, the joint team stormed the gang’s hideout earlier today. In the ensuing confrontation, the kidnappers were neutralized and a recovered cache included an AK-47 rifle and several mobile phones believed to belong to victims.
The Safe City Volunteer Foundation expressed profound appreciation to Hon. Ajede for his unwavering logistical and operational support. The group also acknowledged the contributions of Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Monday Okpebholo for ensuring full mobilization of security agencies throughout the operation.
Read also: Kidnapped Palm Wine Tappers: One Killed After Family Couldn’t Meet Kidnappers’ Ransom Demand
