Gang Leader Behind Multiple Delta Kidnappings Killed in Shootout with Police
ASABA/Nigeria: Residents of Asaba, Ogwashi-Uku, Ibusa, and Ubuluku in Delta State can now breathe a sigh of relief as the Delta State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping, neutralizing four suspected kidnappers in a deadly shootout and recovering three AK-47 rifles.
The Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, ordered the operation following the abduction of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku on April 6, 2025. The victim, who was released a day later after paying a ransom of ₦15 million, had reportedly been targeted by a deadly kidnapping syndicate responsible for a series of violent crimes across the state.
In a press release issued on Saturday by the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, the CP’s Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) launched a sting operation led by ASP Julius Robinson, which resulted in the arrest of one Abubakar Usman, alias “Shehu,” the alleged gang leader.
Usman reportedly confessed to several high-profile abductions, including the recent kidnapping and murder of a realtor, Esther Ojoh, whose body was discovered on March 25, 2025, in Ibusa. He also admitted to the killing of Mr. Godwin Anuka in Ogwashi-Uku and the subsequent abduction of Anuka’s wife and daughter.
Acting on the suspect’s confession, police operatives on April 11, 2025, at about 11:00 a.m., followed him to a forest hideout along the Asaba/Agbor expressway between Okpanam and Issele-Asagba. However, during the search, the suspect allegedly raised an alarm and attempted to escape, leading to a fierce gun battle between the operatives and his waiting gang members.
The gun duel ended with four suspects, including Usman, sustaining fatal gunshot injuries. They were rushed to the General Hospital in Ogwashi-Uku, where they were confirmed dead. Recovered from the scene were three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.
Commissioner Abaniwonda commended the bravery and professionalism of the CP-SAT operatives, describing their action as “gallant and worthy of emulation.” He called on other officers to adopt the same commitment and resilience in tackling criminal elements in the state.
The CP also expressed gratitude to the residents of Delta State for providing credible and timely intelligence, which he said was instrumental to the success of the operation. He assured the public that the police under his watch will not relent in ridding the state of violent crimes.
“We appreciate the trust and cooperation of the public. Let me assure Deltans that this command is determined to bring all criminal elements to justice. We will not fail you,” the CP stated.
