By Amah
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Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have gunned down three suspected kidnappers during a gun duel in a foiled kidnapping operation.
Luck ran out on the suspects, as they attempted to kidnap the wife of a member of the Delta State House of Assembly at Okoloba Junction, Jakpa Road, Uvwie.
During the failed operation, the kidnappers killed two cops and the lawmaker’s driver, identified as Mr David Imela.
Confirming the incident in Asaba, the Delta State capital, on Sunday, SP Bright Edafe,Police Command’s 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.
“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,” Edafe added.
However, CP Abaniwonda directed the DPO to pursue the assailants and make sure that they are arrested.
“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 where they engaged the suspects in a fierce gunfight. Three of the suspects sustained fatal gunshot injuries while others escaped. Another AK-47 rifle was recovered.”
The injured suspects were taken to hospital, where they were confirmed dead.
Meanwhile, the police have launched a manhunt for the fleeing members of the gang while CP Olufemi lauded the gallantry of the DPO and his team, saying other officers to follow their worthy example.
