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From Paul Osuyi, Asaba
Two suspected members of an armed robbery and kidnapping squad have been apprehended by operatives of Delta State Police Command.
Another member of the dare devil gang identified as ‘Oh Lord’ who is believed to be the ring leader, escaped through the ceiling with injuries after he single handedly engaged operatives in fierce exchange of fire.
The arrested suspects include 32-year old Emmanuel James who was nabbed through sting operation, and 25-year old Ejiro Peter who is the official driver of the gang.
Confirming the development on Sunday in a statement, Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Bright Edafe, said the gang was responsible for the kidnap of a couple, Mr. and Mrs. Okutonye Efetobore on April 27, 2023 in Ughellli town.
Edafe said a ransom of N1 million was paid by the distraught family for the release of the couple.
He said the suspects have both confessed to their involvement, adding that they led operatives to the home of the said Oh Lord, who opened fire on the police team.
“The suspect, upon sighting the police, engaged them in a gun duel and escaped through the ceiling of his apartment with bullet injuries.
“When his apartment was searched, a bag containing a locally fabricated pistol and three rounds of 7.62 AK47 live ammunition were recovered. Manhunt for the fleeing suspect is ongoing,” he added.
According to him, operatives of the State Anti Cult Unit (SACU), arrested the duo of Tega Precious (28) and Marvelloveous Ebi (27 ) with one revolver pistol, two live ammunition during a joint operation with Dragon Patrol, Safer Highway, Raiders Squad, Rapid Response Squad at Afisere in Ughelli.
“Suspects confessed to be members of Neo black movement (NBM) cult group. The suspects led the operatives to their hideout, where two pump action guns, two double barrel guns, one single barrel gun and 16 live cartridges, were recovered. Manhunt for the other members of the gang is ongoing,” he stated.
Edafe also confirmed the recovery of two vehicles, at different points, suspected to have been snatched from their owners.
He explained that while a red GLK Mercedes Benz 350 with registration number WWR 441 MD, was recovered at Agbarho, a Toyota Camry with registration number ABC 810 DK was recovered along the Ughelli-Patani road.
On both occasions, Edafe said the occupants of the vehicles hurriedly alighted and fled into the bushes when they were flagged down, adding that manhunt for the fleeing suspects has been intensified.
