The Nigeria Police Force, Delta State Command has confirmed that three suspected kidnappers and armed robbers died following a foiled attempt to abduct the wife of a Delta State House of Assembly member.

The incident, which occurred on September 2, 2024, at Okoloba Junction, Jakpa Road, Uvwie LGA, led to the death of two mobile policemen and a driver, Mr. David Imela.

Following the failed kidnap attempt, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, ordered an immediate and intensive operation to track down the perpetrators.

“We immediately deployed officers around Warri and its environs and narrowed the roads to block all exit points,” he stated.

In a statement signed by SP Edafe Bright, Police Public Relations Officer, Delta State Command on Sunday stated that police operatives from Ebrumede division, led by Divisional Police Officer (DPO) CSP Iwok Ndifereke, strategically created a traffic congestion at DSC roundabout. The suspects, on seeing the police, opened fire.

“The team responded professionally, despite the busy nature of the area,” the statement revealed. The assailants abandoned their bullet-ridden vehicle and escaped, though three AK-47 rifles and the operational vehicle, registered WWR-436-GZ, were recovered.

Unsatisfied with the suspects’ escape, CP Abaniwonda directed that a full-scale manhunt be launched.

The statement disclosed that on October 3, 2024, DPO Ndifereke and his team traced the gang to their hideout in Agbarho, leading to a fierce gunfight.

“The officers were prepared for the battle ahead and overpowered the hoodlums,” the statement read, confirming that three suspects sustained serious gunshot injuries and later died at the hospital. An additional AK-47 rifle was recovered.

The police commissioner commended the bravery of the DPO and his men, urging other officers to emulate their dedication.

A manhunt for the remaining suspects is ongoing.

The state added, “Following the failed attempted kidnap of the wife of one of the members of Delta State House of Assembly on 2nd of September 2024 at Okoloba Junction Jakpa Road, Uvwie LGA, where the suspected kidnappers murdered two mobile policemen and the driver Mr. David Imela.

“The hoodlums immediately abandoned the vehicle shattered with bullets and escaped with bullet injuries. Three (3) AK-47 rifles and their operational vehicle with registration no. WWR-436-GZ were recovered.”