The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Yemi Oyeniyi, on Saturday visited Sapele following the abduction of the Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area, Bright Abeke, by unidentified gunmen, as security agencies intensified efforts to secure his release.

Police spokesperson in the state, Bright Edafe, confirmed that the police chief carried out an on-the-spot assessment of the incident and directed immediate deployment of personnel to ensure the victim is rescued safely.

According to Edafe, the CP’s visit formed part of a rapid response strategy to address the situation and coordinate ongoing rescue operations.

The council chairman was reportedly kidnapped on Friday night, prompting heightened security concerns within the area and across the state.

In a related development, the police command announced a series of strengthened security measures following what it described as a comprehensive review of the state’s security landscape.

Edafe said the actions were in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, mandating commands nationwide to enhance visibility policing, adopt intelligence-driven operations, and deepen collaboration with local communities.

As part of the response, the command has deployed personnel across all area commands, divisions, and other strategic locations in Delta State.

The measures include intensified stop-and-search operations along major highways and key entry and exit routes, as well as sustained day and night patrols and joint operations with other security agencies.

Police said the renewed focus would prioritise the protection of lives and property, maintenance of law and order, and disruption of criminal networks, including kidnapping syndicates and bandit groups.

Targeted operations are also underway in identified flashpoints such as Owa-Oyibu, Ogwashi-Uku axis, Okpanam, Ashaka, Uwherhu in Ughelli North, Umunede, Igbodo, Idumusa, Ute, and several border communities.

The command said the operations are aimed at dismantling criminal enclaves, restoring public confidence, and securing key corridors across the state.

In addition, the CP has directed area commanders to convene town hall meetings with community stakeholders to improve intelligence gathering and foster joint approaches to tackling insecurity.

The abduction comes amid broader efforts by the police to curb rising security challenges and reinforce public safety across Delta State.