By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Delta State Police Command has arrested a suspected kidnapper and armed robber, while recovering two AK-47 rifles, a Beretta pistol and a total of 69 rounds of live ammunition in separate intelligence-led operations across the state.
The suspect, identified as Shehu Malami, 45, was arrested on April 29 at Ogor Market in Ughelli by operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) following credible intelligence.
According to police authorities, the suspect later led operatives to his hideout in Agbarha-Otor, where one AK-47 rifle and 63 rounds of live ammunition were recovered, further revealing that Malami is allegedly a member of a kidnapping syndicate responsible for attacks in Ughelli, Agbarho, Sapele, Warri, and other parts of the state.
In a related development, police operatives acting on intelligence on May 2 recovered another AK-47 rifle, a Beretta pistol, and 6 rounds of live ammunition from a bush near the Customs checkpoint along the Benin–Asaba Expressway.
According to reports, the operation was led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) with support from Buffalo, Crack, and Operation Delta Shield (ODS) squads.
The Command noted that investigations are ongoing to track down other members of the criminal network linked to the recovered weapons.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Yemi Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping, armed robbery, and illegal arms proliferation.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or individuals to the police, assuring that all information provided would be treated with strict confidentiality.