In a decisive operation characterized by fierce gun battle, the Delta State Police Command has neutralized three suspected kidnappers following a failed abduction attempt. The suspects had targeted the wife of a Delta State House of Assembly member on 2nd September 2024 at Okoloba Junction, Jakpa Road, Uvwie, resulting in a deadly confrontation.
During the incident, the assailants killed two mobile policemen and the lawmaker’s driver, identified as Mr. David Imela. The suspects were eventually tracked down by police operatives after their botched attempt.
The spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the development in Asaba. Edafe detailed how the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, responded swiftly to the incident by ordering heightened security around Warri and neighboring areas. This included setting up roadblocks at strategic exit points to prevent the kidnappers from escaping.
Acting on intelligence, police operatives from the Ebrumede Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP Iwok Ndifereke, set up a traffic hold-up at the DSC roundabout. The suspects, upon encountering the police, opened fire. However, the officers responded swiftly and professionally. Faced with overwhelming police firepower, the suspects abandoned their bullet-riddled vehicle, fleeing the scene with gunshot wounds. The police recovered three AK-47 rifles and the operational vehicle, with registration number WWR-436-GZ.
Determined to apprehend the criminals, CP Abaniwonda instructed the DPO to continue pursuing the gang. Armed with evidence left behind in the abandoned vehicle, CSP Ndifereke led his team to the suspects’ hideout in Agbarho on 3rd October 2024.
Upon arriving at the hideout, another gun battle ensued between the police and the suspects. During the intense exchange of fire, three suspects sustained fatal injuries, while others managed to escape. An additional AK-47 rifle was recovered at the scene.
The injured suspects were taken to the hospital, where they were confirmed dead. A manhunt for the remaining members of the gang is ongoing, as police continue to comb through leads.
CP Olufemi Abaniwonda praised the courage and professionalism of the DPO and his team, urging other officers in the force to emulate their dedication to duty. The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Delta State Police Command to safeguarding the lives and properties of residents across the state.
