AGBOR: The Delta State Police Command on Wednesday said its operatives killed two suspected kidnappers during a gun battle at the Owa-Ekei/Boji Boji Owa axis of Ika North-East Local Government Area.
Police spokesperson Bright Edafe disclosed in a statement issued in Asaba that the operation was carried out by a joint team of officers from Owa-Oyibu Division, members of Operation Delta Sweep, and local vigilantes.
According to him, the suspects opened fire when security operatives stormed their hideout in the bush at about 11 a.m. Acting on intelligence, the team engaged them in a fierce shootout.
Two suspects were fatally wounded and later confirmed dead at Owa-Alero General Hospital.
Recovered items include an AK-47 rifle, two magazines, and 40 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. Edafe added that a manhunt has been launched for other fleeing gang members.
The police noted that the raid followed a series of recent abductions around Owa-Ekei, Boji Boji Owa, Abavo, and nearby communities.
Rising insecurity in the area had forced many farmers to abandon their farmlands for fear of kidnappers.
The command urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely information to help curb crime in the state.
