by Oluwabukola Olaomo
In a major breakthrough in the fight against violent crimes across the country, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have neutralized four suspected kidnappers and recovered a significant cache of firearms and ammunition in coordinated operations in Delta and Kano States.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the operations are part of ongoing efforts to curb the rising threat of kidnapping, armed robbery, and banditry.
In Delta State, police operatives carried out a sting operation on April 10, 2025, which led to the arrest of one Abubakar Usman, also known as Shehu, described as the leader of a notorious kidnapping syndicate.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to several heinous crimes including the abduction of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku, the kidnapping and murder of Mr. Godwin Anuka’s wife and daughter in Ogwashi-Uku, and the killing of Ms. Esther Ojoh in Ibusa.
Following his confession, Usman led the operatives to the gang’s hideout in a forest along the Asaba/Agbor expressway. There, police officers came under heavy gunfire from the gang, resulting in a fierce shootout in which four suspects were neutralized. The operation also led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition.
Meanwhile, in a separate operation on the same day in Kano State, police operatives arrested three suspects – Abdul Sadiq, 43; Ahmad Muazu, 22; and Aliyu Sharif, 40 at Dorayi Babba. Acting on credible intelligence, the officers recovered 15 locally fabricated revolver rifles, 102 live cartridges, and six expended cartridges. Investigations are ongoing to trace the source of the weapons and identify the illegal arms manufacturing facility.
Commending the bravery and professionalism of the officers involved, the Inspector-General of Police reiterated the Force’s commitment to eradicating violent crime and ensuring the safety and security of Nigerians.
“The Nigeria Police Force will continue to intensify efforts to track, arrest, and bring to justice all individuals and groups involved in criminal activities that undermine the peace and stability of our nation,” the statement read.
