Army, Police Confirm Drop in Delta Kidnapping Rates

 Security agencies in Delta State have reported a significant improvement in safety across the state, with kidnapping cases dropping and criminal activities increasingly curtailed in recent months.

The Commander of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Abdulmoshood Shonibare, disclosed the development on Wednesday after a Delta State Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the Government House, Asaba. He attributed the gains to stronger coordination among security agencies, traditional rulers, and local government authorities.

Shonibare noted that the state is now calmer compared to a few months ago, with cult-related activities weakening and kidnappers losing ground. He cited a recent rescue mission in which two female students and a male student, abducted in separate incidents, were freed unharmed in a joint operation with the police anti-kidnapping squad. The mission led to the death of two suspected kidnappers and the recovery of firearms, including two AK-47 rifles and 16 rounds of ammunition.

According to him, troops have also intercepted fleeing criminals, including members of the proscribed IPOB group, in Asaba, Warri, and surrounding areas. He warned that those seeking refuge in the state would be pursued and brought to justice. On community-level security, he revealed that anti-drug operations in Ughelli, Abraka, and Warri had been reinforced following high-level military visits and collaboration with the NDLEA.

Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, said several kidnap suspects had been neutralised, multiple firearms recovered, and ₦5.7 million in ransom money seized. He assured residents and visitors of a peaceful festive season, noting that preparations for the ember months were already underway.

Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and sustained security, assuring that adequate measures were in place to protect lives and property as the year ends.