By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on criminal activities, leading to the arrest of several suspected kidnappers, cultists, and armed robbers across the state. In separate operations, recovered an AK-47 rifle, a fabricated Beretta pistol, and locally made firearms.
In one operation, a notorious kidnapping gang operating in Agbarho was confronted by the CP Special Assignment Team after a suspect previously arrested while attempting to purchase ammunition disclosed the gang’s hideout.
Upon storming the location along the railway line, officers engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle. Four suspected kidnappers sustained gunshot injuries and later died in the hospital. The police recovered an AK-47 rifle with a magazine, while efforts are ongoing to track down fleeing gang members.
In another incident, a suspected kidnapper, Abdulahi Isah, was arrested in a forest near Ibusa following a tip-off from a man who had delivered ransom and food items to the kidnappers. The suspect is currently in custody as investigations continue.
Similarly, police operatives in Warri South LGA arrested a suspected cultist, Gideon Sunday, alongside his accomplice, Godstime Solomon. A search of their tricycle led to the discovery of a locally made cut-to-size gun concealed in the engine compartment.
Further investigation led officers to Sapele, where another suspect, Great Odiete, was arrested with a fabricated Beretta pistol. The suspects confessed to being members of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity.
Reacting to the arrests, Delta State Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, commended officers for their proactive efforts and praised the cooperation from members of the public. He assured residents that the command remains committed to reducing crime to its lowest level in the state.