Crime

Newly Appointed DPO Killed in Ambush During Kidnap Rescue Operation

Written by Jerry Alomatu on October 14, 2024

News Views: 412

Tragedy struck in Delta State as the newly posted Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Agbarho Division, CSP Jega, and several officers were reportedly ambushed and killed by a kidnap syndicate in the early hours of Monday. The incident occurred around 1 a.m., just two days after CSP Jega assumed command at the Agbarho Divisional Command.

According to reports gathered by PUNCH Metro, the ambush happened while CSP Jega and CSP Paul, the DPO of the Orerokpe Division, were leading their teams on a rescue mission for a kidnapping victim near the Agbarho rail station. The police units were met with a hail of gunfire from the suspected kidnappers.

In the ensuing gunfight, CSP Jega and several policemen lost their lives, while CSP Paul narrowly escaped death and was rushed to an undisclosed hospital, where medical staff are currently working to save him.

Reacting to the tragic event, Warri-based activist Israel Joe expressed his sorrow, stating, “I feel very pained about this news. This was the same DPO I spoke with yesterday about the conduct of his men who demanded money from a citizen, and he rescued the situation immediately, cautioning his men not to try that again under his watch. This is very tearful; I can attest to the character of these men. I wish to convey my condolences to the Nigeria Police Force, the CP Delta State Command, and the family and friends of the police who lost their lives in the quest to save society while on the front line of duty. None of these demons should be spared by the force.”

SP Bright Edafe, the police public relations officer for the Delta State Command, confirmed the unfortunate incident, stating, “They (the police team) were ambushed. But it’s only the DPO that we lost.”