By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: Operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad of the Delta State Police Command have rescued five kidnapped members of Elyon Paradise Ministry, Ogwashi-Uku, following a coordinated operation in the Ubuluku forest.
The victims, who were abducted during a night vigil on February 22, 2025, were safely reunited with their families after a fierce gun battle between the police and the kidnappers.
Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, said the rescue mission was part of intensified efforts to combat kidnapping in the state. “We deployed tactical teams and relocated our Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad to Ogwashi-Uku with a clear directive to ensure the victims were rescued unharmed. This success underscores our commitment to making Delta State unsafe for criminals,” he stated.
During the sting operation on February 25, 2025, the police, in collaboration with Ubuluku community vigilantes and concerned locals, stormed the kidnappers’ hideout. On sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire but were overpowered by the superior firepower of the security team.
The kidnappers fled, abandoning their captives and some recovered items, including 13 rounds of expended cartridges and a bag containing ₦1.3 million, suspected to be ransom money.
Expressing gratitude to the operatives and community members, the Delta police boss praised their bravery and selflessness. “This rescue would not have been possible without the resilience of our men and the support of the Ubuluku community. Their cooperation was instrumental in tracking down these criminals,” he added.
Residents of Ogwashi-Uku and surrounding areas have lauded the swift response of the police, calling for sustained security efforts to prevent further incidents. A community leader, Mr. Anthony Okolie, described the operation as a relief to many. “We were living in fear, but this breakthrough has restored confidence in our security agencies,” he said.
Meanwhile, the police have intensified their manhunt for the fleeing suspects, vowing to bring them to justice. CP Abaniwonda reassured residents of continued efforts to rid the state of criminal elements, urging the public to report suspicious activities promptly.