Delta State Police Command has arrested five suspected kidnappers operating along the Ughelli-Warri road, following a tactical operation that recovered a loaded AK-47 rifle and 36 rounds of live ammunition. The arrests took place on 24th April 2026 at approximately 18:30 hours, as confirmed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe. The operation, carried out by operatives of the Tactical Team based in Ughelli, was informed by credible intelligence that pointed to a kidnapping syndicate targeting commuters on the busy highway.
The first suspect apprehended was Ahmadu Usman, a 22-year-old male from Lafiya, Nasarawa State. He was arrested at Ekuigbo area of Ughelli. During interrogation, Usman led authorities to the second suspect, Haruna Abdullahi, aged 37, who was apprehended at a trailer park along the Warri-Sapele Road. Alongside Abdullahi, police recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with 36 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition. The weapons and suspects are currently in police custody, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the criminal network.
SP Bright Edafe emphasized that the arrests were part of ongoing efforts by the Delta State Police Command to combat rising insecurity along major transportation corridors. The Ughelli-Warri road has become a hotspot for kidnappings and armed robbery, causing fear among travelers and disrupting economic activities. The police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through emergency hotlines.
The recovered firearm and ammunition underscore the dangerous nature of the criminal elements operating in the region. Authorities are working to determine if the suspects were acting alone or as part of a larger syndicate. The police also plan to intensify patrols and surveillance along the Ughelli-Warri corridor to prevent further incidents. Residents and commuters are being reassured that security forces are actively addressing the threat.
This development comes amid increased concerns over insecurity in the Niger Delta region, where kidnapping and armed robbery have become persistent challenges. The arrest of these suspects is seen as a significant step in restoring safety to the Ughelli-Warri route, which is vital for trade and transportation in the state. The police have vowed to continue dismantling criminal networks and bringing perpetrators to justice. As investigations proceed, more details are expected to emerge, potentially leading to additional arrests and a broader crackdown on crime in the area.
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