Sapele, Delta State – A close associate of Niger Delta chieftain, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, narrowly escaped death after being subjected to a brutal armed robbery attack in Sapele, Delta State. The attack occurred just days after he moved into his new residence on Community Road, raising concerns about the rising wave of violent crimes in the area.
A Midnight Attack That Almost Turned Fatal
According to credible sources, the horrifying incident took place at around 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025. A group of eight heavily armed robbers invaded the victim’s home by scaling the fence and breaking into the house through the kitchen door while he and his family were fast asleep.
The attackers, who were reportedly masked, quickly took control of the house, tying up his children and seizing their mobile phones. The situation took a more sinister turn when they forcibly took him away to an undisclosed location. While in captivity, he was tortured and coerced into transferring money to the robbers’ accounts. However, when the transaction failed due to banking restrictions, the robbers became enraged and resorted to physical violence.
Reports indicate that he was severely beaten and slashed with a machete multiple times on his head. The injuries left him bleeding profusely, and he was eventually abandoned by the attackers, who assumed he would not survive. Fortunately, he managed to cling to life and was later rescued. He is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Warri.
CCTV Footage and Police Investigation
The robbers, seemingly aware of the presence of security cameras, attempted to destroy the evidence by damaging one of the CCTV cameras and removing its memory card. However, they overlooked a critical detail—the SIM card, which remained intact. Investigators have since reviewed the footage captured by other security cameras, and it is expected to aid in identifying the criminals.
A reliable source familiar with the ongoing investigation has confirmed that one of the suspects has already been apprehended. The individual is currently in police custody and is said to be providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of the remaining gang members.
Family in Shock, Residents Demand Increased Security
Speaking to TJ News Nigeria, the victim’s wife confirmed the horrifying ordeal, stating that their children have been traumatized by the incident. She described her husband’s survival as an act of divine intervention and expressed gratitude that he is still alive despite the severity of his injuries.
Residents of Sapele, particularly those living on Community Road, Jes Motel Road, and Comprehensive Road in Amukpe, have expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of violent crimes in their neighborhoods. Many have reported multiple robbery incidents in recent weeks, with some fearing that criminal gangs are becoming more daring.
In light of the recent attack, residents are calling on security agencies, including the police and local vigilante groups, to strengthen surveillance efforts in the area. Some have even suggested the implementation of a community-based security initiative to tackle the growing insecurity.
State Police Confirm Realtor’s Abduction in Ibusa
Meanwhile, the issue of insecurity in Delta State continues to dominate headlines. In another shocking development, a female realtor, identified simply as Esther, was abducted by gunmen in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area.
The incident reportedly took place during a routine land inspection. Esther and three of her colleagues were returning from the site when they were ambushed by the kidnappers. Witnesses say the gunmen opened fire, forcing everyone to flee for safety. Unfortunately, while her colleagues managed to escape, she was not so lucky—she was seized and taken away by the attackers.
One of the escapees sustained gunshot wounds and is currently in critical condition at an undisclosed hospital. The victim’s family has since been thrown into distress, anxiously waiting for updates on her whereabouts.
Confirming the incident, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, revealed that officers dispatched to rescue the victim were ambushed by the kidnappers, resulting in a violent confrontation. A police officer was shot in the exchange but miraculously survived. Security operatives are now intensifying efforts to track down the criminals and secure Esther’s release.
Delta State Faces Rising Crime Wave
These recent incidents are part of a troubling pattern of violent crimes that have plagued Delta State in recent months. Armed robberies, kidnappings, and home invasions have become increasingly common, with both high-profile individuals and ordinary residents falling victim.
Security analysts believe that the growing crime rate may be linked to worsening economic conditions and the activities of organized criminal gangs operating within the state. While authorities have pledged to address the issue, many residents argue that more decisive action is needed to curb the menace.
As investigations into both the Sapele armed robbery attack and the Ibusa kidnapping continue, Delta residents are hoping that swift justice will be served. Many are calling for a stronger police presence and better community policing initiatives to restore a sense of safety in the region.
For now, the victim of the Sapele attack remains in the hospital, fighting to recover from his ordeal, while Esther’s family anxiously awaits news of her fate.
