From Victor Edozie, in Port Harcourt
Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command said it has 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.
The Rivers State Police Command Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Irengi Koko in Press Release issued in Port Harcourt on Tuesday said the
operation followed a distress call received in the early hours of March 20 from a 35-year-old resident, Fadi Nasser, who she said reported that a group of armed men invaded his residence along Orogbum Crescent, Woji Road, in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of the state capital.
Koko said the attackers attempted to abduct the victim and opened fire during the incident.
The Police PPRO said despite the intensity of the attack, the victim managed to escape, a development described by security officials as both fortunate and critical in triggering a swift police response.
She said investigations took a decisive turn after a mobile phone believed to belong to one of the suspects was recovered at the scene.
She said acting on the lead, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, based in Aluu, deployed technical intelligence to track 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. However, on arrival at the location, the police team came under heavy gunfire from other members of the criminal group.
“The operatives engaged the suspects in a gun duel and successfully overpowered them. In the process, several members of the gang fled the scene, with police sources confirming that about six suspects escaped into a nearby river with gunshot wounds.
“A thorough 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 by the gang in carrying out their criminal operations.
“Security officials said the operation is part of intensified efforts by the command to dismantle kidnapping syndicates and curb violent crimes in Rivers State. They added that a coordinated manhunt is currently underway to track down the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons,” Koko stated.
She called on residents of the area to remain vigilant and support ongoing operations by providing credible and timely information to security agencies.
She reiterated the commitment of the Command to safeguarding lives and property, assuring the public that further developments on the case will be communicated as investigations continue.
