Suspected Kidnappers Killed After Delta Police Gun Battle

Two suspected kidnappers have been killed in a shootout with police operatives in Delta State. The confrontation occurred near Upper-Agbarho in Ughelli North after officers came under attack from members of a criminal gang attempting to free their arrested accomplices.

Police said the operation followed a directive by the state’s commissioner, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, to clamp down on kidnapping and armed robbery around Ughelli and its environs. Two suspects, Abubakar Musa and Yusuf Sale, had earlier been arrested in Rivers and Imo States after an intelligence-led investigation.

The men reportedly led officers to a bush between Upper Agbarho and Oviri-Ogor communities, where an AK-47 rifle, pump action gun and live ammunition were recovered. As the team exited the area, they were ambushed, prompting a gun exchange.

Both suspects and two police officers sustained gunshot injuries. The suspects died later in hospital, while the officers are receiving treatment. Police say efforts are under way to arrest other members of the gang.