Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Port Harcourt, Nigeria — The Rivers State Police Command has announced a significant operational success in its fight against kidnapping and violent crime, arresting two suspects linked to a major kidnapping syndicate and recovering ransom money and a firearm during the crackdown. The breakthrough is part of sustained efforts by the command to disrupt criminal networks and reinforce security across the oil-rich southern state.
In a statement released on February 4, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that officers of the state’s Anti-Cultism Unit intercepted and apprehended the suspects along the Ozuzu/Apara Link Road in Etche Local Government Area following credible intelligence. The suspects were allegedly involved in the kidnapping of a female victim and three others on January 19, 2026, in the Elele Waterside community.
During the operation, police recovered ₦2,383,000 in ransom payments that had been handed over by the relatives of the victims, as well as a pump-action firearm, supporting allegations that the suspects were actively engaged in abductions for monetary gain. The recovery of these exhibits and the arrests underscore the command’s zero-tolerance policy toward kidnapping and other serious offences that threaten public safety.
The suspects were taken into custody after a gun battle with police operatives, during which two members of the syndicate were fatally wounded. The command’s intervention disrupted the criminal plan and prevented further harm to the abducted individuals.
Commissioner of Police Olugbenga A. Adepoju commended the operatives involved in the successful sting operation, reaffirming the command’s commitment to making Rivers State “a hostile environment for criminal elements.” He stressed that such outcomes reflect improved intelligence-led policing and heightened operational readiness among the state’s security forces.
Authorities have emphasised that tackling kidnapping and related crimes remains a priority, particularly in communities where organised criminal groups exploit gaps in security to abduct residents for ransom. The arrests and evidence recovered in this case are expected to contribute to ongoing investigations and support the prosecution of the suspects under relevant sections of the criminal code.
The Rivers State Police Command has also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies, saying that community cooperation is essential in detecting and dismantling criminal networks. Enhanced patrols, targeted raids and strengthened collaboration with local stakeholders are among the strategies the command is deploying to reduce kidnapping and ensure the safety of residents.
This latest success follows a series of police operations in Rivers State that have aimed to curtail armed banditry, cult-related violence and other forms of organised crime. While criminal elements continue to adapt their tactics, authorities maintain that sustained pressure, intelligence gathering and prompt law enforcement action are critical to restoring public confidence in local security.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments