Police nab wanted kidnap kingpin in Delta, neutralise four gang members

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of a notorious kidnap leader, Abubakar Usman, popularly known as Shehu, who is believed to be behind several high-profile kidnappings and killings in Delta State, even after ransoms were paid.

According to the Force Headquarters, Shehu was captured during a sting operation carried out by officers attached to the Delta State Police Command on April 10, 2025.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, stated that the suspect admitted to his involvement in numerous crimes, including the abduction of a medical doctor in Issele-Uku and the kidnapping of the wife and daughter of Mr. Godwin Anuka in Ogwashi-Uku, which ended in Mr. Anuka’s murder.

Shehu also confessed to the kidnapping and murder of Ms. Esther Ojoh in Ibusa. Following his confession, he led police operatives to the gang’s hideout in a forest along the Asaba-Agbor expressway. Upon arrival, the officers came under gunfire from the rest of the gang, resulting in a fierce shootout. During the exchange, four members of the criminal group were gunned down, and the police recovered three AK-47 rifles along with 90 rounds of live ammunition.

In a separate incident in Kano State, police operatives arrested three suspects, Abdul Sadiq (43), Ahmad Muazu (22), and Aliyu Sharif (40), at Dorayi Babba following credible intelligence.

Further investigations led to the recovery of 15 locally-made revolver rifles, 102 live cartridges, and six used cartridges.

The Police assured the public of their continued efforts to rid communities of violent criminals and maintain safety across the country.