ASABA, Nigeria — The Delta State Police Command has foiled a suspected kidnap plot in Ughelli and arrested two suspects during an intelligence-led operation, recovering firearms and other items believed to have been intended for criminal activities.
The Police Command disclosed that the operation was carried out following credible intelligence indicating that a group of suspected criminals was planning to abduct residents within the Ughelli area. Acting on the information, officers launched a coordinated operation that led to the arrest of the suspects before the alleged plot could be executed.
According to the Command, security operatives recovered arms and other incriminating items from the suspects during the operation. Police authorities said the recovered exhibits are being subjected to further examination as part of ongoing investigations aimed at identifying additional members of the suspected criminal network.
The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to combating kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state. He stated that intelligence gathering and proactive policing remain key components of the Command’s strategy to improve public safety.
The Commissioner commended the officers involved in the successful operation, describing it as another demonstration of the Command’s determination to prevent crime rather than merely respond after incidents occur. He assured residents that security agencies would continue to intensify surveillance and intelligence-driven operations in identified crime-prone areas.
Police authorities disclosed that the arrested suspects are currently in custody and assisting investigators. The Command said efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other individuals believed to be connected to the alleged kidnapping syndicate.
The Delta State Police Command reiterated that kidnapping remains one of the security challenges confronting several parts of the country and stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between security agencies and local communities. According to the police, timely intelligence provided by residents continues to play a crucial role in preventing criminal activities.
Residents were encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities within their communities. The police urged members of the public to make use of official emergency lines and other established communication channels to provide credible information that could assist ongoing security operations.
Security experts have consistently advocated stronger community policing and intelligence sharing as effective tools in tackling kidnapping and organised crime. They note that early intervention based on reliable information often prevents planned attacks and enhances the ability of security agencies to dismantle criminal networks.
The Command also reassured residents that adequate security measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property across Delta State. It warned criminal elements to abandon unlawful activities, stressing that the police would continue to pursue offenders relentlessly and ensure they are brought before the courts to face prosecution.
The Delta State Police Command reaffirmed its resolve to sustain proactive policing, strengthen intelligence operations and work closely with other security agencies to maintain peace and security. It pledged to remain focused on protecting communities from kidnapping and other violent crimes while ensuring that those responsible are held accountable under the law.
