Operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad of the Delta State Police Command have successfully rescued five kidnapped members of Elyon Paradise Ministry, Ogwashi-Uku, following a coordinated sting operation in the Ubuluku forest.
The victims were abducted on February 22, 2025, while attending a night vigil at the church. In response, Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, swiftly deployed tactical teams, including operatives of the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad, to Ogwashi-Uku with a mandate to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
On February 25, 2025, a team led by CSP Labe Joseph, in collaboration with Ubuluku community vigilantes and concerned indigenes, stormed the kidnappers’ hideout in the forest. Upon sighting the operatives, the criminals engaged them in a gun battle but were overpowered by the superior firepower of the police. The kidnappers fled, abandoning their captives.
All five victims were rescued unharmed and have since reunited with their families. Security operatives recovered thirteen rounds of expended cartridges and a bag containing ₦1.3 million, suspected to be ransom money. A manhunt for the fleeing suspects is ongoing.
Commending the operation, CP Abaniwonda praised the bravery of the police operatives and the dedication of Ubuluku community vigilantes and human rights activists who joined the rescue mission.
The Delta State Police Command assures residents of its continued commitment to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of all.