Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have foiled a planned kidnapping incident in Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state, and arrested two suspects in separate intelligence-led operations.

This was contained in a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, a copy of which was made available to journalists in Warri on Wednesday.

The statement noted, “On July 31, 2026, operatives of ‘A’ Division, Ughelli, while acting on credible intelligence, foiled a planned kidnapping following information that Jeremiah Kwane, 26, had allegedly attempted to recruit an individual into a kidnapping syndicate with a view to abducting a pastor and a retired school principal in Ughelli.”

Edafe affirmed that the intelligence was immediately acted upon, leading to the arrest of the suspect at his duty post in Ughelli.

“A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of one single-barrel gun and two live cartridges,” he stated, adding that “the suspect is presently undergoing further investigation.”

In another development, on August 4, 2026, operatives of the Ebrumede Division, while on an intensive stop-and-search duty along Garki-Uti Road, Effurun, intercepted three suspected armed robbers.

“During the operation, Benjamin Haruna, 28, was arrested, while two other suspects identified as Omelo and Alabanco escaped on a motorcycle,” the statement added.

The police statement explained that “a search of a bag in the possession of the suspects led to the recovery of two locally made double-barrel guns, eleven live cartridges, one expended cartridge, one axe, two Android phones, two power banks, two wristwatches, one lighter and one camouflage military polo.”

It noted that preliminary investigation revealed that “the suspects were transporting the exhibits to their hideout along Sapele Road.”

The statement concluded that the arrested suspects remain in custody, while a coordinated manhunt is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, has reaffirmed the command’s “resolve to relentlessly pursue kidnappers, armed robbers and other violent criminals,” while urging residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information to enhance the safety and security of all. (The PUNCH)

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