The Delta State Police Command has made significant progress in the fight against kidnapping, arresting eight suspected kidnappers and recovering N4 million in ransom.
Commissioner of Police Abaniwonda Olufemi addressed the media on Thursday, highlighting the success of recent operations. He stated that the police command’s proactive approach, which includes intelligence gathering and raids, has led to the arrest of multiple suspects involved in high-profile kidnappings.
On May 12, 2025, four of the suspects were apprehended along the Kwale/Ozoro expressway in a Toyota Sienna bus, where N3.1 million was recovered. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had kidnapped a woman in Ughelli, holding her captive for four days before demanding and collecting a N4 million ransom. The victim identified the suspects, and investigations are ongoing.
In another operation, Abdullahi Ibrahim, a gang leader, was arrested in Ondo State after he led officers to more suspects and weapons, including an AK-47 rifle. A total of N900,000 was recovered from him. The suspect revealed his role in several kidnappings in the Ibusa/Ogwashi-Uku/Issele-Azagbe areas.
Additionally, a child trafficking suspect was arrested in Warri, following a disturbing case where a mother was drugged and her two-month-old baby was stolen. Joy Temitope Oyetimi, 49, was apprehended after a detailed investigation. The baby, now five months old, has been safely returned to the family.
The police are continuing to expand efforts to curb criminal activities in the state, and have promised further investigations and the prosecution of those involved in these heinous crimes.
