The Delta State Police Command has neutralised two suspected kidnappers and armed robbers following a gun duel during an intelligence-led operation at a suspected criminal hideout in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, conducted on October 31, 2026, at about 8:35 p.m., involved operatives of the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), working in collaboration with the Ughelli Vigilante.
The police said the operatives stormed a suspected criminal hideout in a forest at Ekrerhavwe following credible intelligence on the activities of the suspected criminals.
However, upon sighting the security operatives, the suspects reportedly opened fire, triggering a gun duel.
During the exchange of gunfire, two suspects sustained gunshot injuries, while others escaped into the forest.
The injured suspects were subsequently taken to a hospital, where they were confirmed dead by a doctor.
Items recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle, 26 rounds of live ammunition and two face masks.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Samuel E. Erale, reiterated the command’s commitment to combating kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could assist security agencies in tackling criminal activities.
The command disclosed that efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
The police made this known in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on November 1, 2026.
