MIDNIGHT GUN BATTLE IN DELTA! Police Neutralise Kidnappers, Rescue Victims, Recover ₦4.2m Ransom

…AK-47, Ammunition Seized as Joint Operation Hits Criminal Hideout.

There was high drama in the early hours of Thursday, April 9, 2026, as operatives of the Nigeria Police Force engaged suspected kidnappers in a fierce gun duel, rescuing two victims and recovering millions in ransom.

The operation, carried out by the Delta State Command under Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, has been described as a major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping in the state.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, the operation was intelligence-driven and executed in collaboration with the military.

At about 12:40 a.m., operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad stormed a suspected hideout along Obulu-Uku Power Line, following reports of kidnappings in Ibusa and Enu-Ani Mega City, Ogwashi-Uku

Police said the suspects opened fire immediately upon sighting operatives, triggering a gun battle. “The operatives responded professionally,” the statement noted.

At the end of the exchange, two suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded, and two female victims were successfully rescued.

The injured suspects were later confirmed dead at the hospital.

Items recovered from the scene include one AK-47 rifle, 19 rounds of live ammunition, and ₦4.2 million suspected ransom money.

Security forces have since launched a combing operation in nearby bushes to track down fleeing gang members and recover more weapons.

CP Oyeniyi praised the bravery of the operatives and highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in tackling violent crimes.

He reassured residents that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property, sustaining pressure on criminal elements, and responding swiftly to security threats.

The police urged the public to continue providing credible and timely information, emphasizing that intelligence sharing remains crucial to successful operations.