Operatives of the “A” Division, Ughelli, in Delta State have foiled a planned kidnapping of a pastor and a retired school principal, arresting a suspect linked to the alleged plot.

Police also recovered a single-barrel gun and two live cartridges during the operation.

The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the development in a statement issued in Warri.

According to Edafe, the operation followed credible intelligence received on July 31, 2026, indicating that a suspect, Jeremiah Kwane, 26, allegedly attempted to recruit someone into a kidnapping syndicate to abduct the intended victims in Ughelli.

“On 31 July 2026, operatives of ‘A’ Division, Ughelli, while acting on credible intelligence, foiled a planned kidnapping following information that Jeremiah Kwane (26) had allegedly attempted to recruit an individual into a kidnapping syndicate with a view to abducting a pastor and retired school principal in Ughelli,” Edafe said.

He explained that officers acted swiftly on the intelligence, leading to the suspect’s arrest at his duty post in Ughelli.

A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of one single-barrel gun and two live cartridges.

Edafe added that the suspect is currently undergoing further investigation.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes.

He also urged residents to continue supporting the police by providing timely and credible information to enhance security across the state.