Operatives of the Commissioner of Police Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT) have made a significant breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping and armed robbery in Delta State, following the arrest of three suspects linked to a notorious syndicate operating across multiple communities.
The spokesperson for the command, SP Bright Edafe, who confirmed the arrest to The Guardian in Asaba on Monday, said their arrest followed a directive by the State Police Commissioner, Mr. Olufemi Abaniwonda, who ordered the transfer of a kidnapping case initially reported at the Isiokolo Police Station to the CP-SAT for further investigation.
Edafe stated that the case had earlier led to the arrest of one suspect, Augustine Ojanuware, who, upon interrogation, confessed to being part of a kidnapping and armed robbery gang responsible for the series of criminal activities in Ughelli, Warri, Agbarho, Sapele, and surrounding areas.
“Acting on the information provided, CP-SAT operatives conducted a follow-up operation on June 28, 2025, leading them to the Osubi area of Warri and Ughelli town.
“From there two additional suspects were apprehended during the operation: 27-year-old Precious Urhobowin from Ewu Community in Ughelli North Local Government Area, and 32-year-old Julius Okpako, a native of Oviri-Ogor community in the same council,” he explained.
According to Police sources, Okpako is the owner of a POS machine used by the gang to collect ransom payments.
He said a locally made firearm and eight live cartridges were recovered from the suspects during the arrest.
“Preliminary investigations revealed the suspects were involved in the June 19, 2025, kidnapping of a female pharmacist from her residence in Ughelli.
“The victim was held for five days before being released after an undisclosed ransom was paid. The suspects abandoned her Lexus Jeep along the Isiokolo axis following the abduction.
“Additionally, the gang has been linked to an attempted kidnapping in Iyede community on April 28, 2025, during which they robbed a male victim of his Toyota Corolla after the operation failed.”
The spokesperson revealed that all the suspects are currently in police custody as the investigation continues.
He said the state police command is committed to eradicating criminal networks across the state and urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
