In a significant breakthrough, Delta State Police have apprehended five individuals suspected of kidnapping a 70-year-old woman and demanding a ransom of N7.9 million. The arrest took place on September 17, 2024, following a well-coordinated operation by the Ughelli Area Command’s special squad.
According to a statement from the Delta State Police Command, the suspects were arrested at a brothel in Weu town, Ughelli South Local Government Area. The operation, conducted in the early hours of September 12, 2024, was triggered by a tip-off. The police raided the brothel, which was being used as both a hideout and a criminal base.
During the raid, authorities recovered several items:
Four locally made guns
N450,000 in cash
A Moniepoint POS machine
An OPAY POS machine
Wraps of substances suspected to be Indian hemp
These items were found in the possession of the suspects, who were identified as Dominic Uweru (48), Isaac Oghenerukevwe (34), Oviri Godstime (25), Junior Sunday, and Efedeki Adjovo.
The suspects are believed to be responsible for multiple criminal activities in the region, including the recent kidnapping of the elderly woman. The abduction occurred on September 8, 2024, and the ransom of N7.9 million was collected on September 10, 2024. After receiving the ransom, the suspects released the woman, who was thankfully unharmed.
The arrested individuals have confessed to their involvement in this and other criminal operations. They are currently in police custody as investigations continue to uncover more details about their activities and possible accomplices.
The Delta State Police Command is continuing its investigation to fully understand the scope of the suspects’ criminal network and to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of the police to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.
This case underscores the importance of community vigilance and timely reporting to assist law enforcement agencies in tackling crime effectively.
