January 31, 2026
News | SUNTV Global Channel
Fresh controversy has erupted in Delta State following the killing of a vigilante leader in Sapele, with residents accusing senior police officers of colluding in the incident.
The leader of the SOS Security Team, Liberty Kunu, was allegedly killed on Thursday under circumstances that have sparked widespread condemnation across Sapele, the headquarters of Sapele Local Government Area. Multiple community sources claim that Kunu was murdered on the directive of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Sapele Police Station, CSP Johnbull Obulowho—an allegation strongly denied by the police authorities.
According to findings by SUNTV Global Channel, Liberty Kunu and his SOS vigilante group had, for years, worked closely with the police in combating crimes such as armed robbery and kidnapping in Sapele and its environs. Residents say the group was officially recognised by the police and frequently collaborated with law enforcement during security operations.
Allegations of Betrayal and Secret Deals
A senior community source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that Liberty was initially accused of being a cultist but was nonetheless relied upon by the police for intelligence gathering and crime-fighting operations.
The source alleged that trouble began weeks ago after the SOS team arrested a notorious cult suspect identified as Jonathan Momoh. While Liberty was reportedly on his way to Warri after the arrest, he was allegedly instructed by the Sapele DPO to return to Sapele.
“Liberty honoured the invitation and went back to the Sapele Police Station, where he was detained on what we believe were trumped-up charges,” the source said. “He was later transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Ughelli. After investigations found nothing incriminating against him, he was sent back to Sapele and was due for release on Thursday.”
However, the source claimed that Liberty was instead brutally killed by a police officer, allegedly acting on the instructions of the DPO. As of the time of filing this report, residents say the whereabouts of his body remain unclear.
“This is the same Liberty who helped rescue kidnapped victims along the Warri–Sapele Road weeks ago,” the source added. “The real reason for his killing is that he allegedly knew too much about the deep involvement of some police officers in kidnapping and armed robbery in the area.”
Police Offer Contradictory Account
In a counter narrative, the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Aina Adesola, dismissed claims of extrajudicial killing in a statement titled “Attack on Policemen/Death of Suspected Kidnapper, Arrest of Suspected Kidnappers and Recovery of Firearms.”
The CP stated that Liberty Kunu—popularly known as Commander Liberty or Double Agent—was arrested following multiple complaints linking him and his gang to kidnapping, abduction, and armed robbery.
According to the police, on January 17, 2026, three persons were abducted at Boyo Road Junction in Sapele, with two victims allegedly robbed of valuables worth ₦9 million. Investigations allegedly traced the crime to a syndicate led by Liberty, who was said to be operating under the guise of a vigilante group.
The police claimed that Liberty and five others were arrested, and weapons including five pump-action guns and a Beretta pistol were recovered. Further investigations allegedly revealed that Liberty was a member of the Aye confraternity and was in possession of an AK-47 rifle.
The CP said that during an operation on January 28, 2026, Liberty led officers to a forest hideout at Ibada-Elume, where an AK-47 rifle and a locally fabricated revolver were recovered.
“While retreating from the location, operatives were ambushed by suspected gang members attempting to rescue the suspect,” the statement said. “A fierce gun battle ensued for over ten minutes. Liberty and some officers sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to the hospital, where Liberty was confirmed dead.”
Police further claimed that his corpse was deposited at the General Hospital, Sapele, and that investigations are ongoing while other suspects remain in custody.
Community Demands Independent Probe
Despite the police explanation, tension remains high in Sapele, with residents demanding an independent investigation into the killing. Community leaders and youth groups insist the incident raises serious concerns about alleged collusion, abuse of power, and the safety of local security volunteers.
As public pressure mounts, rights groups are calling on the Delta State Government and the Police Service Commission to urgently intervene to ensure transparency and accountability.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and bring verified updates as the story unfolds.
