The Delta State Police Command says it smashed a kidnap syndicate in an Issele‑Uku forest, rescued three kidnapped victims and recovered an AK‑47 rifle during a coordinated security operation.

The operation followed a report of a kidnapping received at the Issele‑Uku Police Division on March 16, 2026.

Police and partner security operatives launched a search‑and‑rescue mission in identified hideouts in the surrounding bush.

According to the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Bright Edafe, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Aderemi Badiru, coordinated the operation with the military, local vigilante groups and hunters.

During the operation, there was an intense exchange of gunfire between security operatives and members of the kidnapping syndicate.

One suspect sustained fatal gunshot wounds and was confirmed dead, and his body was taken to a mortuary.

Three kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed and have been reunited with their families.

A sustained search of the area led to the arrest of one suspect, Ahmadu Hassan, aged 22, of Kange Village in Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. He was found with gunshot injuries.

Security operatives recovered one AK‑47 rifle loaded with four rounds of live ammunition during the operation.

The Police Public Relations Officer said another injured suspect is under treatment in police custody. Efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the syndicate as the investigation continues.