By Michael Agbaji
The Rivers State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its sustained efforts to combat kidnapping and violent crime, with the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, magazines, and ammunition following the foiling of an abduction attempt in Port Harcourt.
The operation, which underscores the ongoing security reinforcement drive of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, was triggered by a distress call received in the early hours of March 20, 2026, from a resident, Mr. Fadi Nasser.
The victim reported that armed men had invaded his residence along Orogbum Crescent, Woji Road, in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), attempting to abduct him.
Upon receipt of the report, operatives of the Command swiftly mobilised to the scene.
Preliminary findings indicate that the attackers opened fire during the incident; however, the victim managed to escape unhurt.
A major breakthrough in the investigation came with the recovery of a mobile phone believed to belong to one of the suspects at the scene.
Leveraging technical intelligence, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit tracked the device, leading to the arrest of one suspect, identified as Joseph Abibo.
During interrogation, the suspect provided useful information that led police operatives to the gang’s hideout. On arrival, the team came under heavy gunfire from other gang members.
The operatives engaged the criminals in a gun duel, successfully overpowering them. Several suspects fled the scene, with about six escaping into a nearby river with gunshot wounds.
A thorough search of the hideout resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition.
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, has assured residents that a coordinated manhunt is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons. He further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information to aid ongoing operations.
The Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the state.
Further developments will be communicated as investigations progress.
