The Delta State Police Command has announced significant progress in its ongoing fight against kidnapping and illegal arms trafficking. Through a series of intelligence-led operations conducted between April 23 and April 24, 2026, law enforcement officers arrested multiple suspects and recovered assault rifles, ammunition, and a vehicle believed to be used in criminal activities.
Arrest of Ahmadu Usman
On April 24 at approximately 6:30 p.m., operatives from the Command’s tactical team in Ughelli apprehended Ahmadu Usman, a 22-year-old native of Lafia, at the Ekuigbo area. Police Public Relations Officer Bright Edafe stated that Usman is linked to a kidnapping syndicate that has been terrorizing commuters along the Ughelli–Warri Road, a busy highway frequently used by travelers and commercial transporters.
Recovery of AK-47 Rifle
Further interrogation of Usman led officers to Trailer Park along the Warri–Sapele Road, where they arrested Haruna Abdullahi, 37. During the operation, police recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with 36 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition. Both suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.
Second Operation Targets Gun-Running Network
In a separate operation on April 23, the tactical team arrested another suspect in Ughelli for alleged involvement in an inter-state gun-running and kidnapping network. The suspect was taken into custody alongside Haruna Jibrin, 30, a native of Wase, who investigators believe was responsible for facilitating the transportation of arms from Ughelli to Port Harcourt.
Extension into Rivers State
Follow-up operations on April 24 extended into Rivers State, where police arrested Isiyaku Adamu, 38, a suspected accomplice. Authorities recovered the AK-47 rifle intended for transport, along with a blue Toyota Corolla allegedly used by the syndicate. The Command stated that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full scope of the network, identify other collaborators, and determine possible links to kidnapping incidents across state lines.
Commissioner’s Commitment
Reacting to the developments, Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi reaffirmed the Command’s zero-tolerance policy for kidnapping and illegal arms trafficking. He assured residents of sustained intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal cells, restoring confidence on highways, and improving public safety across Delta State.
