ASABA: Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have apprehended a notorious kidnap kingpin, Abubakar Usman, also known as Shehu, and neutralized four members of his gang during a high-risk operation.
The arrest, which took place during a sting operation on Thursday, was part of a broader crackdown on violent crime, according to a statement released on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
Usman was arrested in Delta State and reportedly confessed to leading a deadly kidnapping syndicate responsible for several high-profile abductions and murders in the region.
In our continued efforts to combat violent crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and banditry, the Nigeria Police Force has recorded significant success,” Adejobi said.
On April 10, 2025, during a sting operation, officers of the Delta State Command arrested one Abubakar Usman, also known as Shehu, the identified leader of a notorious kidnapping gang.
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He has confessed to a series of crimes, including the kidnapping of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku, the abduction and murder of Mr. Godwin Anuka’s wife and daughter in Ogwashi-Uku, and the kidnapping and killing of Ms. Esther Ojoh in Ibusa.”
Following his confession, Usman led officers to the gang’s hideout in a forest along the Asaba/Agbor Expressway. Upon arrival, the police team came under heavy gunfire from other gang members.
In the ensuing gun battle, four of the gang members were neutralized. The operatives recovered three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live ammunition from the scene, Adejobi added.
Related Developments in Kano
In a separate operation in Kano State, police arrested three suspects—Abdul Sadiq (43), Ahmad Muazu (22), and Aliyu Sharif (40)—in the Dorayi Babba area on the same day.
Acting on intelligence, police discovered an illegal arms cache containing 15 locally fabricated revolver rifles, 102 live cartridges, and six used cartridges. Investigations are ongoing to locate the illicit arms factory and apprehend additional suspects.
The police are intensifying efforts to trace the origin of the weapons and dismantle the illegal manufacturing network,” Adejobi said.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, commended the officers involved in both operations for their bravery and dedication.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains unwavering in its mission to rid the nation of violent criminal elements and ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians,” he stated.
