The Delta State Police Command has rescued two kidnap victims in its sustained crackdown on kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.

The command in a statement by its spokesperson, Bright Edafe, on Thursday, said the police also killed to suspected kidnappers during the operation. 

Mr Edafe said, “In a coordinated intelligence-led operation, operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and cyber-crime squad in a combined effort with the military on 9 April 2026 at about 0040hrs, trailed suspected kidnappers to their hideout along Obulu-Uku Power Line, following a reported kidnapping incident in Ibusa and Enu-Ani Mega City, Ogwashi-Uku.”

He noted that on sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, leading to a gun duel, adding that “the operatives responded professionally, resulting in the rescue of two female victims, while two members of the kidnapping syndicate were fatally wounded.”

The police spokesperson added, “Recovered from the scene were one AK-47 rifle, nineteen (19) rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and four million, two hundred thousand naira (#4,200,000) suspected to part of the ransom collected from victims. 

“A combing operation of the surrounding bushes is ongoing with a view to recovering additional arms and apprehending fleeing members of the gang. The injured suspects were taken to the hospital where they were confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.”

The state commissioner of police, Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives and the support of the military, noting that such inter-agency collaboration remains critical in tackling violent crimes. 

The command reassured residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged members of the public to continue to provide credible and timely information to the police.