Police foiled abduction engaged in gun duel with the kidnappers

The Delta State Police Command successfully thwarted a kidnapping attempt by a gang in Oghara kingdom, Ethiope West Local Government Area, engaging the suspects in a gun battle. According to a statement by Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe, on August 13, 2024, during the graduation ceremony at Delta State Polytechnic, Oghara, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) received a tip-off about a planned kidnapping of attendees. Acting on this information, DPO Olasunkanmi Musiliu mobilized police operatives to the suspects’ hideout in a bush along Otefe/Ovade Legit Road. The suspects fled upon sighting the police but sustained injuries from the exchange of gunfire.

The police recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, an English pump-action gun, and a locally made cut-to-size gun from the scene. A manhunt for the fleeing suspects is underway.

On August 14, 2024, at about 7:45 pm, the police anti-crime patrol team intercepted a motorcycle carrying Ovoke Benedict, 22, and Fredrick Urhoborume, 23, both students from Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe, Oghara. A search revealed a locally made cut-to-size gun with six live cartridges. Preliminary investigations suggest the pair may be members of the Arrow Barger Confraternity.

Delta Commissioner of Police Olufemi Abaniwonda praised public support and urged continued, timely reporting to assist in combating crime. He emphasized the importance of community-based policing, visibility patrols, and proactive measures for effective crime prevention. Public reports can be made at local police stations or by calling the control room numbers: 08036684974, 08114895600, or 08025666914.