Gun-battle in Delta: 2 women rescued, 2 kidnappers killed, N4.2m ransom money recovered

By Ayox Ojo

Police operatives have rescued two women from kidnappers, killed two suspected kidnappers while they also recovered one AK-47 rifle, 19 rounds of ammunition, and N4.2 million ransom money after fierce gun-battle in a forest in Ogwashi-Uku area of Delta State.

The operation carried out by operatives of the Delta Special Anti-Kidnapping and cyber-crime squad in a combined effort with the military on 9 April 2026 at about 0040hrs followed reported kidnapping of two women in Ibusa and Enu-Ani Mega City, in Ogwashi-Uku town.

Bright Edafe, the spokesperson of Delta Police Command said in a statement on Thursday that in the coordinated intelligence-led operation, the security operatives trailed the suspected kidnappers to their hideout along Obulu-Uku Power Line where they engaged them in a gun duel.

“On sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, leading to a gun duel. The operatives responded professionally, resulting in the rescue of two female victims, while two members of the kidnapping syndicate were fatally wounded.

“Recovered from the scene were one AK-47 rifle, 19 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and four million, two hundred thousand naira (#4,200,000) suspected to part of the ransom collected from victims,” Edafe said.

The Delta Police spokesperson added that a combing operation of the surrounding bushes is ongoing with a view to recovering additional arms and to apprehend fleeing members of the gang.

He added that the injured suspects were later taken to a hospital where they were confirmed dead.

Edafe quoted the Delta Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, as commending the bravery and professionalism of the operatives and the support of the military in the rescue effort.

Oyeniyi noted that such inter-agency collaboration remains critical in tackling violent crimes.

The Police Commissioner also reassured residents that the Delta Police Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urges members of the public to continue to provide credible and timely information to the Police.