Delta Police Smash Kidnap Gang, Rescue Victim Shot After Paying ₦2m Ransom

Police operatives in Delta State have arrested three suspected kidnappers and rescued a victim who was shot despite paying a ₦2 million ransom.

The suspects — identified as Chukwuebuka Nka, 25, Uche Okechukwu, and 18-year-old Somto Chukwuma — were tracked down in Ogwashi-Uku and other parts of Anambra State, according to police spokesman SP Bright Edafe.

The victim, whose name was withheld for safety reasons, was abducted from his residence in Ogwashi-Uku on 8 September. Despite receiving a ransom, the kidnappers shot him in the leg, accusing him of not paying enough.

Edafe said Commissioner of Police ordered the Special Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Squad, led by CSP Godwin Osadolor, to move in swiftly. Officers trailed the gang to their hideout in the bush, rescuing the victim with gunshot wounds before making a string of arrests.

Investigations revealed that the gang had in their possession a stolen Toyota Venza SUV belonging to the victim, a Toyota Matrix used for operations, and a network jammer device.

All three suspects remain in custody as police continue their investigation.

Authorities say the operation underscores their resolve to clamp down on kidnapping gangs terrorising residents in Delta and neighbouring states.