Five kidnap suspects die after gun battle with police, three arrested in Delta

Five suspected kidnappers have reportedly died after a gun battle with operatives of the CP-Special Assignment Team, CP SAT, in Delta State, while three others were arrested.

The suspects died while receiving treatment in a hospital.

The operatives also recovered one (1) AK-47 rifle, one (1) pump-action gun, three (3) locally made guns, two magazines, sixty (60) rounds of AK-47 live ammunition, and seventeen (17) rounds of live cartridges from the suspects.

The incident occurred on 21/3/2025, at about 2300hrs, DAILY POST can report.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, in a statement sent to our correspondent in Warri, confirmed the report.

The police spokesperson said, “Following an intelligence-led investigation carried out on kidnapping and other related crimes in Ughelli North LGA and environs, on 21/3/2025, at about 2300hrs, operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP SAT), led by ASP Julius Robinson, acting on gathered intelligence, trailed and arrested one Adamu Abubakar ‘m’ popularly known as ‘Dogo,’ who is the leader of a kidnapping syndicate at DSC Roundabout, Warri.”

According to SP Edafe, “The arrest and interrogation of this suspect led to the arrest of two other suspects, Abubakar Mohammed, popularly known as ‘Chede,’ and Mohammed Bellow at Otovwodo Park in Ughelli North LGA.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects are allegedly responsible for a series of kidnappings and armed robberies around Iyamuge, Otu-Jeremi, Warri, Ughelli, and surrounding areas.

“Acting on the strength of their confessions, the suspects led the operatives to Iyamugo Forest, where their hidden weapons, including one (1) AK-47 rifle, one (1) pump-action gun, three (3) locally made guns, two magazines, sixty (60) rounds of AK-47 live ammunition, and seventeen (17) rounds of live cartridges, were recovered.

“Upon exiting the forest, some hoodlums suspected to be their gang members engaged the police in a gun duel, during which five of the hoodlums sustained gunshot injuries while others escaped.”

SP Edafe noted that “The injured suspects were taken to the hospital and later died while receiving treatment.

“The three suspects and the recovered exhibits are in custody, while the investigation is ongoing.”