Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have foiled a kidnap attempt in Port Harcourt and recovered two AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition following a swift counter-operation that led to the arrest of a suspected gang member.
The operation, followed a distress call received in the early hours of March 20 from a resident, identified as 35-year-old Fadi Nasser, who reported an armed invasion of his residence along Orogbum Crescent, Woji Road, in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Port Harcourt.
Police sources said the attackers stormed the premises with the intent to abduct the victim and opened fire during the operation.
The victim, however, managed to escape, a development officials described as crucial in enabling a rapid tactical response.
Investigations were said to have taken a decisive turn after a mobile phone suspected to belong to one of the attackers was recovered at the scene.
Acting on intelligence derived from the device, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit in Aluu tracked and arrested one Joseph Abibo, identified as a member of the gang.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly provided information that led operatives to the gang’s hideout.
However, the police team came under heavy gunfire upon arrival at the location, prompting a fierce exchange.
In the ensuing gun duel, operatives overpowered the suspects, while several members of the gang escaped with gunshot wounds.
Security sources said about six suspects fled into a nearby river during the confrontation.
A 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.
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The command said the breakthrough forms part of intensified efforts to dismantle kidnapping syndicates and violent criminal networks across the state.
It added that a coordinated manhunt has been launched to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and provide credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing operations.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the command remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property in the state.
She assured that further updates would be communicated as investigations continue.
