In a series of coordinated operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks across the country, the Nigeria Police Force has achieved significant breakthroughs in Delta and Kano States, dealing a major blow to kidnapping and illegal arms trafficking.
According to a press release by the Force Headquarters in Abuja, police operatives attached to the Delta State Command executed a daring sting operation on April 10, 2025, leading to the arrest of Abubakar Usman, also known as “Shehu”, a notorious kidnap kingpin.
During interrogation, Usman reportedly made chilling confessions linking him to several high-profile abductions and murders, including the kidnapping of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku, the abduction and murder of the wife and daughter of Mr. Godwin Anuka in Ogwashi-Uku, and the kidnap and murder of Ms. Esther Ojoh in Ibusa.
Following this confession, the suspect led operatives to the gang’s hideout in a forest along the Asaba/Agbor expressway. However, the team came under heavy gunfire from other members of the gang. In the resulting exchange, four kidnappers were neutralized, and security personnel recovered three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition.
In a parallel operation in Kano State, police operatives acted on credible intelligence and arrested three suspects: Abdul Sadiq (43), Ahmad Muazu (22), and Aliyu Sharif (40) in Dorayi Babba. The arrests led to the discovery of an arms cache, including 15 locally fabricated revolver rifles, 102 live cartridges, and 6 expended cartridges. Investigations are ongoing to identify the source of the weapons and locate the illegal manufacturing site.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, commended the operatives for their bravery and professionalism.
“The Force has made it a mandate to curb violent crimes that threaten national peace and security,” he declared.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in the statement dated April 14, 2025, reassured Nigerians of the police force’s unwavering commitment to national security and its resolve to rid communities of criminal elements.
