Delta State Police Achieve Major Breakthrough in Kidnapping Case
The Delta State Police Command has successfully apprehended five suspected kidnappers and rescued their victim in connection with a kidnapping incident that took place on February 1, 2026. This significant achievement underscores the command’s commitment to curbing crime in the region.
Details of the Kidnapping Incident
According to state police spokesperson Bright Edafe, the incident occurred at approximately 8 PM on the Wari-Sapele road, near the Adeje community. A group of tourists was ambushed and abducted by armed assailants during their journey.
Coordinated Response Sparks Victim Rescue
The situation was reported around 5 PM on February 4, 2026, following the escape of two victims who managed to raise the alarm. In his statement, Edafe noted that the kidnappers were equipped with firearms and other dangerous weapons, forcibly taking the victims into the surrounding bush.
Following the alert, a well-coordinated response was launched involving the police, Nigerian Army, and local vigilante groups. Sustained pressure from this integrated security team ultimately forced the kidnappers to abandon the remaining victims, who were rescued unharmed.
Arrest of Initial Suspects
On February 4, acting on credible information, operatives from the Orelokpe Division arrested Mr. Dafiaga Timothy. He was apprehended while attempting to withdraw funds using one of the victim’s ATM cards at a point-of-sale location in the Adeje community. Subsequently, the Divisional Police Officer was instructed to transfer the investigation to the Commissioner of Police’s Special Tasks Team for further scrutiny.
Subsequent Arrests and Investigation Progression
As investigations advanced, additional suspects were identified and apprehended. On March 31, 2026, police operatives detained Samuel Omoniho, 31, from Kokoli community, and 22-year-old Henry Christmas from Adeje community.
Another breakthrough occurred on April 5, 2026, when two more alleged gang members, Obo Wilson Jr., 24, known as “Sea Boy,” and 36-year-old Emakupo Ubialo Abel, were taken into custody. Abel, a tricycle driver, was found to have been transporting gang members to and from their operational base.
Recovery of Weapons and Investigation Developments
On April 13, 2026, police operatives conducted a follow-up operation based on intelligence gathered during interrogation. At a hideout located at Oka Junction, Agbarjo, they recovered a counterfeit Beretta pistol loaded with three live rounds and an indigenous firearm containing seven live rounds.
The police command reported that the syndicate has been linked to multiple kidnapping and armed robbery cases across Warri, Sapele, Agbajo, Ughelli, and nearby communities.
Commendation for Collaborative Efforts
Delta State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Yemi Oyeniyi, praised the collaboration between various security agencies and the vigilance of local residents, attributing this synergy as a key factor in the operation’s success.
