The Delta State Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, has ordered massive deployment of tactical teams to the Abraka community and environs in the Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state following the upsurge in kidnapping incidents in the locality.

The police boss declared that no stone would be left unturned in the efforts to ensure the safety of lives and property in the various communities across the state.

Abaniwonda made the declaration in response to the upsurge in violent crimes in Abraka, where the state police command last week confirmed the death of four suspected armed kidnappers in a gun duel with joint security operatives comprising police patrol team, vigilantes, hunters and members of anti-cult volunteers.

One AK-47 rifle, along with 13 rounds of live ammunition was recovered from the neutralised killer kidnappers during that joint operation.

The Police Public Relations Officer for the Delta State Command, Bright Edafe, had disclosed in a signed press statement that the joint operation was carried out in the wee hours of Wednesday “at about 0300hrs, following credible intelligence on the activities of suspected kidnappers along the Abraka Rail way area.”

According to the police spokesman, the suspects believed to be between the ages of 25 and 30 had opened fire on the security personnel, prompting a swift and calculated response that led to their deaths.

The PPRO had stated, “During the operation, joint operatives comprising of the police, hunters, vigilantes and anti-cult volunteers engaged the suspected kidnappers and recovered one AK-47 rifle, along with 13 rounds of live ammunition.

“In the gun duel, four of the suspected kidnappers were shot and later gave up the ghost while others escaped with gunshot injuries.

“During a preliminary investigation, a recently rescued kidnapped victim identified one of the deceased suspects as a leader of the gang that kidnapped him”.

Consequently, residents of the Abraka community expressed relief and gratitude to the joint security operatives while also calling for heightened surveillance and sustained patrol of the Abraka-Benin Highway and adjoining forest routes.