By Bukola Olamona

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested one Abubakar Usman, also known as Shehu, alleged leader of a notorious kidnapping syndicate.

Four members of the gang were neutralised during the operation, while three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition were recovered.

Disclosing this in a statement, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said police operatives attached to the Delta State Command carried out a sting operation on April 10, 2025, targeting kidnappers operating within the state.

During interrogation, the arrested suspect reportedly confessed to a series of crimes, including the abduction of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku, Delta State; the kidnap of the wife and daughter of one Mr Godwin Anuka in Ogwashi-Uku, followed by his eventual murder; and the abduction and killing of one Ms Esther Ojoh in Ibusa.

The suspect later led police operatives to the gang’s hideout in a forest along the Asaba–Agbor expressway, where the officers came under heavy fire. In the ensuing gun duel, four members of the gang were gunned down, while three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition were recovered at the scene.

In a separate operation in Kano State, also on April 10, 2025, police operatives from the State Command, acting on credible intelligence, arrested Abdul Sadiq (43), Ahmad Muazu (22), and Aliyu Sharif (40) in Dorayi Babba.

Further investigation led to the recovery of 15 locally fabricated revolver rifles, 102 live cartridges, and six expended cartridges.

Efforts, according to the police, are ongoing to trace the factory where the illegal arms are being manufactured and to apprehend other suspects linked to the criminal network.

Commending the gallant officers, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, lauded their bravery, professionalism and commitment. He reassured Nigerians that the Force remains resolute in its quest to rid the country of violent crimes and guarantee the safety of all citizens.