The Delta Police Command has apprehended three kidnap suspects and neutralised one in the state.

Spokesman of the command, SP Bright Edafe, who disclosed this to reporters on Saturday in Warri, also said one AK-49 rifle was recovered from the suspects.

Mr Edafe said the suspects were arrested at different locations between Monday and Friday by the police operatives deployed to Ughelli on special assignment.

He said ASP Julius Robinson led the police team, adding that some hoodlums were also nabbed at different locations in the state.

“Acting on credible intelligence relating to the kidnapping of a male victim on May 17, 2024, at his residence in Adjakota, Ughelli South Local Government Area (LGA) of the state. The victim was later murdered by the kidnappers.

“On July 1, 2024, the police team arrested one of the suspects in Oghara, Ethiope West LGA.

“Similarly, on July 4, 2024, the suspect led operatives to the arrest of two other members of the gang in Agwara and Agbarho communities in Ughelli South and Ughelli North, respectively,” he said.

Mr Edafe said that acting on the confession made by the suspects, the police operatives on Friday stormed the Oviri-Ogor bush, where they encountered an attack from other gang members.

He said that during the ensuing gun duel, one of the hoodlums hiding in the bush sustained gunshot injuries.

The police spokesman said the injured suspect was taken to the hospital and later died while receiving treatment.

Mr Edafe said one AK-49 rifle was recovered in the suspects’ hideout, adding that an investigation into the matter was ongoing.