Asaba, Delta State – April 12, 2025 – Residents of Asaba, Ogwashi-Uku, and Ubuluku now celebrate a major victory after police dismantled a dangerous kidnapping ring.
On April 10, operatives from the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) engaged four suspects in a fierce gunfight, neutralizing them and recovering three AK-47 rifles with ninety ammunition rounds.
SP Edafe Bright, the state’s police spokesperson, confirmed the breakthrough via the Delta State Command’s official X account.
This operation followed the April 6 abduction of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku, who was freed after a ₦15 million ransom payment.
Alarmed by escalating violence, Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi Abaniwonda ordered an intelligence-driven investigation.
Consequently, on April 10 at 10:00 PM, ASP Julius Robinson’s team arrested Abubakar Usman (“Shehu”), the gang’s alleged leader.
During interrogation, Usman confessed to orchestrating kidnapping across Ogwashi-Uku, Ibusa, and Ubuluku, including the abduction and murder of realtor Esther Ojoh.
He also admitted involvement in seizing the wife and daughter of Godwin Anuka, whom his gang killed earlier.
Promptly acting on his confession, police raided a forest hideout along the Asaba-Agbor expressway. However, Usman alerted his accomplices, triggering a chaotic escape attempt.
Authorities pursued the fleeing suspects, resulting in a violent exchange that critically injured Usman and three others.
Despite efforts to save them, all four died at Ogwashi-Uku General Hospital.
CP Abaniwonda lauded the CP-SAT team’s courage, stressing their actions reflect the command’s resolve to protect residents.
Moreover, the commissioner thanked communities for cooperating and urged continued information sharing to aid crime prevention.
“Under my leadership, we remain unwavering in securing Delta State,” he vowed.
Meanwhile, residents express renewed hope as this success highlights progress against rampant kidnappings.
The operation’s impact extends beyond arrests: it disrupts a network linked to multiple high-profile crimes, including the doctor’s abduction.
By prioritizing intelligence and rapid response, police demonstrate improved tactics in tackling organized gangs.
Nonetheless, challenges persist, as ransom payments fuel criminal audacity.
Ultimately, this outcome underscores the necessity of collaborative policing and public vigilance.
While celebrating this win, authorities warn against complacency, urging sustained efforts to eradicate remaining threats.
For now, Delta State’s residents relish a moment of hard-earned relief, praying for lasting peace amid ongoing security reforms.