Three suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded during a gunfight with the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) of the Delta State Police Command. The police team, led by ASP Robinson Julius and deployed by the State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, was on a covert patrol along the Ughelli-Patani Road on Tuesday when they intercepted a shuttle bus at Ewhereni Junction. Upon sighting the officers, the suspects opened fire in a bid to escape, prompting a gun duel. Three suspects sustained severe gunshot injuries and later died in the hospital, while others managed to flee. An AK-47 rifle loaded with 18 live rounds was recovered from the scene. In a separate operation, CP-SAT operatives arrested several suspected kidnappers, armed robbers, and cultists, recovering firearms and ammunition. On May 24, the team apprehended Ifeanyi Okolie, alias “Black Jesus,” for allegedly snatching motorcycles and valuables in Asaba and surrounding areas. He led officers to a hideout in the bush, where they recovered three homemade guns, four live rounds, and a suspected stolen motorcycle. Three others connected to the case were arrested: Ogochukwu Emmanuel, Joseph Egwu, and Yakubu Yusuf. Police also recovered a Beretta pistol from a suspect known as “NINO,” who is still at large. The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, in a statement on Thursday, praised the CP-SAT team for their work. Abaniwonda said, “These significant successes demonstrate the command’s resolute commitment to dismantling criminal networks and enhancing the safety and security of all residents across Delta State. “I commend the operatives for their exemplary professionalism and dedication in executing the recent operations.” The CP assured the public of continued vigilance and urged citizens to report suspicious activities through the police control numbers.