Police in Delta State say one suspected kidnapper was killed and another arrested after a gun battle with security operatives in Issele-Uku, as authorities responded to a reported abduction. In a statement on Wednesday, Police Public Relations Officer SP Bright Edafe said the operation followed a kidnapping report received on March 16, 2026, at the Issele-Uku Division. According to the police, officers, working with the military, local vigilante groups and hunters, launched a coordinated search-and-rescue mission targeting identified hideouts in the area.
“During the encounter, one of the suspects was fatally wounded, while three kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed and reunited with their families,” Edafe said.The police said a 22-year-old suspect, identified as Ahmadu Hassan from Kange Village in Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, was arrested with gunshot injuries during a search of the surrounding bush. He is currently receiving treatment in police custody.
An AK-47 rifle loaded with four rounds of ammunition was recovered at the scene, according to the statement. The identity of the deceased suspect has not been confirmed, and the body has been deposited in a mortuary. Delta State Commissioner of Police Aina Adesola commended the operatives and collaborating security partners, adding that efforts are ongoing to track and arrest other fleeing suspects.
