Operatives of the Delta State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad, working alongside the SafeCity Security Service, have arrested notorious wanted bandit Abubakar Usman during a coordinated operation in the Ogwashi-Uku/Adonta Forest following the rescue of a kidnapped woman. Authorities say the suspect is linked to multiple kidnapping operations across Delta State.
Security operatives in Delta State have arrested notorious wanted bandit Abubakar Usman after a fierce gun battle inside the Ogwashi-Uku/Adonta Forest.
The operation was carried out by the Delta State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad in collaboration with the SafeCity Security Service following intelligence gathered after the abduction of a woman identified as Blessing Chiedu.
According to reports, Blessing Chiedu was kidnapped on July 2, 2026, along Ani-Ifekide Farm Road in Ubulu-Uku, prompting security agencies to launch a coordinated rescue operation using surveillance technology.
The victim was successfully rescued alive along the Ubulu-Unor/Ashama Road before operatives immediately commenced a manhunt for the fleeing kidnappers.
Using intelligence and surveillance systems, security personnel traced the suspects to their hideout inside the Ogwashi-Uku/Adonta Forest, where a gun battle ensued.
Abubakar Usman was captured during the exchange of fire, while other members of the gang reportedly escaped into the forest with their weapons.
Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu, who disclosed details of the operation, alleged that Usman and his gang had been responsible for several kidnapping attacks across Igbodo, Umunede and neighbouring communities, collecting millions of naira in ransom from victims’ families.
He commended the Delta State Police Command, SafeCity Security Service, members of the Nigeria Forest Security Service and community stakeholders for their coordinated response, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping in the state.
As of the time of filing this report, the Delta State Police Command had yet to issue a formal statement on the arrest.
However, security sources indicated that investigations are ongoing while efforts have intensified to track down other fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the criminal network operating within the forest.
The arrest represents another significant breakthrough in Delta State’s campaign against kidnapping and violent crime. Security agencies say operations will continue until the remaining gang members are apprehended, reaffirming their commitment to improving public safety and eliminating criminal hideouts across the state.