Police Bust Kidnap Ring in Rivers, Recover AK-47 Rifles as Suspect Leads Raid on Hideout
Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping, arresting a suspected gang member and recovering two AK-47 rifles, magazines, and ammunition after foiling an abduction attempt in Port Harcourt. This is inline with the spirit of the ongoing security fortification championed by the 23rd Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu,
The development was disclosed in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, of the Rivets State command.
The operation followed a distress call received in the early hours of March 20 from a 35-year-old resident, Fadi Nasser, who reported that armed men had invaded his residence along Orogbum Crescent, Woji Road, in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Port Harcourt.
According to police sources, the assailants attempted to abduct the victim and opened fire during the attack. However, the victim managed to escape unharmed—an outcome described by security officials as both fortunate and crucial in prompting a swift police response.
Investigations gained momentum after a mobile phone, believed to belong to one of the suspects, was recovered at the scene. Acting on this lead, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit in Aluu deployed technical intelligence to trace the device, leading to the arrest of one Joseph Abibo, identified as a member of the gang.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly provided actionable intelligence that led operatives to the gang’s hideout. Upon arrival, the police team came under heavy gunfire from other gang members.
The operatives engaged the suspects in a gun duel, eventually overpowering them. In the process, several gang members fled the scene, with police confirming that about six suspects escaped into a nearby river with gunshot wounds.
A subsequent search of the hideout led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition, believed to have been used in the gang’s operations.
Security officials stated that the operation forms part of intensified efforts to dismantle kidnapping syndicates and curb violent crime across Rivers State. A coordinated manhunt is ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information.
The Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring the public that further updates will be provided as investigations progress.
