Kidnappers who abducted, murdered realtor in Delta State killed in gun battle with police
Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have reported shooting and k1lling members of a notorious kidnapping syndicate responsible for the abduction and murder of a realtor, Esther Ojoh, during a gunfight.
One of the suspects had earlier been arrested before leading officers to the gang’s hideout.
Esther Ojoh was kidnapped on Monday, March 24, while returning from a site visit near the Nigerian Admiralty University, Ibusa.
She was reportedly with three others when armed men attacked them. Her body was later discovered in Ibusa on Wednesday, March 26.
In a statement released on Saturday, April 12, the police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, revealed that following the abduction of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku on April 6—and his subsequent release the next day after a ₦15 million ransom was paid—Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, ordered a tactical, intelligence-led operation to apprehend those behind the crimes.
Acting on the directive, ASP Julius Robinson, commander of the CP Special Assignment Team, led a sting operation on April 10 around 10 p.m., which resulted in the arrest of Abubakar Usman, also known as “Shehu,” alleged leader of the kidnapping gang.
He is believed to be behind several high-profile abductions in the Ogwashi-Uku, Ibusa, and Ubuluku areas, including the kidnapping and murder of Mr. Godwin Anuka and the abduction of his wife and daughter.
Usman reportedly confessed to multiple crimes, including the kidnapping and killing of Esther Ojoh.
Based on his confession, police operatives followed him to the gang’s hideout in a forest along the Asaba/Agbor expressway, between Okpanam and Issele-Asagba, around 11 a.m. on April 11.
While searching the area, the suspect reportedly raised an alarm and attempted to escape, reuniting with his armed gang members.
A gunfight ensued, resulting in fatal injuries to four suspects, including Usman Abubakar.
All were later confirmed dead at the General Hospital in Ogwashi-Uku.
During the operation, police recovered three AK-47 rifles and 90 rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition.
Commissioner Abaniwonda commended the bravery and swift action of the Special Assignment Team, urging other officers to emulate their courage.
He also expressed gratitude to Delta residents for their continued support and cooperation, assuring the public that the police remain committed to combating crime in the state.
