Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping gang and recovered two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition after successfully foiling an abduction attempt in Port Harcourt.
The operation forms part of intensified security efforts by the Nigeria Police Force under Inspector-General Olatunji Rilwan Disu to dismantle kidnapping networks and reduce violent crime in the state.
According to the Command’s Spokesperson, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the incident occurred in the early hours of March 20, 2026, following a distress call from 35-year-old resident Fadi Nasser.
Nasser reported that heavily armed men invaded his residence on Orogbum Crescent along Woji Road in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), attempting to abduct him.
The attackers opened fire during the invasion, but Nasser managed to escape unharmed an outcome police described as fortunate and key to triggering a rapid response.
Investigations advanced after operatives recovered a mobile phone believed to belong to one of the suspects at the scene.
The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit based in Aluu used technical intelligence to track the device, leading to the arrest of Joseph Abibo, identified as a member of the kidnapping syndicate.
Under interrogation, Abibo provided actionable intelligence that guided police to the gang’s hideout. However, officers came under heavy gunfire upon arrival, sparking a fierce gun duel.
“Police operatives engaged the suspects in a gun battle and eventually overpowered them,” Iringe-Koko stated.
Several gang members fled the scene, with about six suspects escaping into a nearby river, reportedly sustaining gunshot wounds.
A thorough search of the hideout yielded the two AK-47 rifles, magazines, and ammunition linked to the gang’s activities.
The command has launched a coordinated manhunt to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover any additional weapons.
Iringe-Koko emphasized that the successful operation highlights the Rivers State Police Command’s renewed push against kidnapping and violent crime.
She urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely, credible information to security agencies to support ongoing investigations.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Rivers State and promised further updates as the probe progresses.
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