Deadly Retaliation: Gunmen Open Fire On Security Convoy In Abraka—University Shuts DownSuspected kidnappers launched a deadly ambush on security personnel in the Abraka community of Delta State, following a joint operation by the police, local vigilantes, and hunters that left four alleged abductors dead.
The ambush reportedly resulted in injuries and possible fatalities among the responding security team, though the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed at the time of this report. The incident has sparked renewed tensions between Abraka residents and northern settlers in the area.
Trouble began on Wednesday when two individuals were reportedly killed by armed attackers while finalizing a land transaction in the bush. In response, security operatives mobilized swiftly, conducting a coordinated mission with local vigilantes and hunters to track down the suspected assailants.
According to reports obtained by Eyesjournals, a local resident, Marcus Dafe, who had participated in a previous protest against rising kidnappings in Abraka, was fatally shot—allegedly by the same kidnappers.
During the ensuing gunfight, security forces recovered two bodies and reportedly neutralized four suspected kidnappers. Among the items recovered were an AK-47 rifle and thirteen rounds of live ammunition. A recently rescued kidnapping victim identified one of the deceased suspects as the ringleader of the gang responsible for his abduction.
Angered by the loss of their leader and gang members, the assailants retaliated by mounting a siege at the entrance to Abraka, ambushing incoming vehicles. Security operatives, including the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), came under heavy gunfire during the attack, which was believed to be a premeditated ambush.
The escalating violence forced authorities at Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, to temporarily suspend academic activities as a precaution. In response to the volatile security situation, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reportedly convened an emergency security meeting in Asaba on Thursday.
Police spokesperson SP Bright Edafe confirmed the successful operation against the kidnapping gang, stating, “The joint operation was based on credible intelligence about suspected kidnappers operating around the Abraka Railway axis. Four suspects were neutralized during the gun duel, and several others escaped with gunshot wounds.”
Security remains heightened in Abraka as authorities continue to search for fleeing suspects and assess the full impact of the ambush.
