In a swift and decisive response to a harrowing kidnapping incident, the Delta state police command, under the leadership of commissioner of police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, has successfully rescued five members of the Elyon Paradise Ministry, Ogwashi-Uku, who were abducted during a night vigil on February 22, 2025.
Following the distressing event, where the victims were kidnapped while attending a church service, Abaniwonda immediately mobilized tactical teams to Ogwashi-Uku.
Special operatives from the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad were relocated to the area with an urgent directive to secure the safe release of the hostages.
According to a press release signed by Edafe Bright, and made available to journalists, on February 25, 2025, a well-coordinated sting operation was executed in Ubuluku forest by the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber-Crime Squad, led by Commander CSP Labe Joseph.
The operation was supported by members of the Ubuluku community vigilante and other concerned indigenes, including human rights activists. The team stormed the forest where the victims were being held captive.
Upon sighting the police, the kidnappers opened fire, engaging in a fierce gun battle. However, the criminals were quickly overpowered by the superior firepower of the police, forcing them to flee and abandon the hostages.
In the statement, all five victims were rescued unharmed and have been reunited with their families. During the operation, police recovered several key exhibits, including thirteen rounds of expended cartridges and a bag containing N1,300,000, suspected to be ransom money.
He said a manhunt for the fleeing kidnappers is ongoing as authorities work to bring the criminals to justice.
CP Abaniwonda has praised the bravery of the police operatives and commended the vital role played by the Ubuluku community vigilantes and indigenes, including the involvement of human rights activists who accompanied the police on the operation.
