Police kill 4 kidnappers, recover 18 rifles in Delta, Kano operations

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have killed four suspected kidnappers and recovered 18 rifles in separate sting operations in Delta and Kano States. The operations, conducted on April 10, 2025, also led to the arrest of several suspects and the recovery of ammunition, marking a breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and the proliferation of illegal arms.

Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, said in a statement that coordinated efforts in both states led to the arrest of key suspects and the seizure of dangerous weapons. According to the statement, in Delta State, police operatives arrested one Abubakar Usman, alias Shehu, identified as the leader of a notorious kidnapping gang.

According to the police, Usman confessed to multiple high-profile crimes, including the abduction of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku, the kidnap and murder of Ms. Esther Ojoh in Ibusa, and the killing of Mr. Godwin Anuka after kidnapping his wife and daughter in Ogwashi-Uku.

“Acting on his confession, officers were led to the gang’s hideout in a forest along the Asaba/Agbor expressway. “The operatives came under heavy gunfire but engaged the kidnappers in a shootout, during which four gang members were neutralised.

“Three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the scene”, the statement reads.

The Police also noted that in Kano State, operatives acting on credible intelligence arrested three suspects, Abdul Sadiq (43), Ahmad Muazu (22), and Aliyu Sharif (40) in the Dorayi Babba area.

“Further investigations uncovered 15 locally fabricated revolver rifles, 102 live cartridges, and six spent cartridges. Police authorities are now working to identify the arms manufacturing source and apprehend additional suspects”, it added.

Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police,  commended the professionalism and bravery of the officers involved. He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians.