The Delta State Police Command has arrested a suspected kidnapper and armed robber, recovering an AK-47 rifle and 63 rounds of live ammunition during the operation.
In a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, the suspect was identified as 45-year-old Shehu Malami, who was apprehended in Ughelli following intelligence-led efforts.
“on April 29, 2026, at about 2010 hours, operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team, acting on credible intelligence, arrested one Shehu Malami, aged 45 years, at Ogor Market, Ughelli.
“The suspect later led operatives to his hideout in Agbarha-Otor, where one AK-47 rifle and 63 rounds of live ammunition were recovered.”
Police investigations suggest the suspect is linked to a wider criminal network operating across several parts of the state.
“preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is part of a kidnapping syndicate terrorising Ughelli, Agbarho, Sapele, Warri and other areas in the state.”
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.
“efforts to arrest other members of his gang are ongoing.”
In a separate operation, police units recovered additional weapons, including an AK-47 rifle, a Beretta pistol, and ammunition, during a raid near the Benin–Asaba Expressway.
The Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling crime and encouraged residents to report suspicious activity, assuring that informants “will be treated with utmost confidentiality.”
