Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in Delta State have killed two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate operating in Ubulu-Uku and neighbouring communities in Aniocha South Local Government Area.
A joint team of police and soldiers carried out the operation after tracking the suspects to their hideout during an early morning raid.
The raid led to the rescue of two female victims who were being held by the gang.
According to police spokesperson SP Bright Edafe, the operation was conducted by the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad in collaboration with the military, following earlier kidnapping incidents reported in Ibusa and Ogwashi-Uku.
On sighting the operatives, the suspects reportedly opened fire, leading to a gun battle in which they were fatally wounded. They were later confirmed dead at a hospital.
Security forces also recovered ₦4,200,000, believed to be part of ransom money collected from victims, along with an AK-47 rifle and 19 rounds of ammunition.
The police said a follow-up search of surrounding bushes is ongoing to recover additional weapons and arrest fleeing gang members.
The Delta State Police Command commended the operation and reaffirmed its commitment to tackling violent crime in the state, urging residents to continue providing useful information to security agencies.
