The Delta State Police Command has intercepted and killed three suspected kidnappers in an open fire gun battle resulting from attempted abduction.
It was gathered that, the dead suspects had tried kidnapping the wife of a member of the Delta State House of Assembly on 2nd September 2024, at Okoloba Junction, Jakpa Road, Uvwie.
The suspects during their operation, succeeded in killing two policemen and the lawmaker’s driver, Mr David Imela.
The Delta State Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed this to a media outlet today, October 6th, 2024, in Asaba, the State capital.
The interception of the suspects occurred on October 3rd, 2024, led by CSP Iwok Ndifereke and his formidable team.
In his words the spokesperson said : “Following the failed attempted kidnap of the wife of a Delta State House of Assembly member, where the suspected kidnappers murdered two mobile policemen and the driver, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, immediately ordered heightened security around Warri and neighbouring areas, including roadblocks at exit points.”
"Police operatives from Ebrumede Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP Iwok Ndifereke, strategically created a traffic hold-up at DSC roundabout. They spotted a vehicle matching the description provided, including the registration number"
“On noticing the traffic and seeing the police, the hoodlums opened fire on the officers. The police responded professionally, given the busy nature of the area. The suspects abandoned their bullet-riddled vehicle and fled with gunshot injuries. Three AK-47 rifles and the operational vehicle, with registration number WWR-436-GZ, were recovered,"
He further said that, the CP being unsatisfied with the suspects’ escape, ordered and directed the DPO to embark on a search for the criminals and to ensure their apprehension.
“Armed with information and evidence found in the abandoned vehicle, on 3rd October 2024, CSP Iwok Ndifereke led his team to the suspects’ hideout in Agbarho.
"The police engaged the suspects in a fierce gunfight. Three of the suspects sustained fatal gunshot injuries while others escaped. Another AK-47 rifle was recovered" He said.
After the police interception of the suspects, they secured injuries and were taken to the hospital where they were confirmed dead.
CP Olufemi revealed that a search is currently ongoing for the arrest of the other suspects who escaped, while he also commended the bravery and diligent efforts put in by the DPO and his team during the operation.
