The Rivers State Police Command says it arrested a suspected kidnapper, rescued a kidnapped man and recovered an AK-47 rifle during an operation in the Eliozu-Rumuokoro axis of Port Harcourt. Police said the operation followed a kidnapping report received on September 24, 2026.
Key Highlights
- Police said a 23-year-old suspect was arrested in Port Harcourt.
- A kidnapped victim identified by police as Mr Emmanuel was rescued.
- An AK-47 rifle and two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition were reportedly recovered.
- Police also reported recovering a white tricycle allegedly linked to the incident.
- The operation took place around the Eliozu-Rumuokoro axis.
- Police said efforts to find other suspected gang members are ongoing.
Police Launch Operation After Kidnap Alert
The Rivers State Police Command said it received information at about 10:15 p.m. on September 24 that a person had been kidnapped.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, the Convoy Patrol Team stationed at Eliozu spotted suspected kidnappers and pursued them towards Rumuokoro, by Eligbolu.
The statement said operatives of the Special Area Division mobilised and intercepted the fleeing suspects. ASP Agabe is listed as the Rivers State Command’s police public relations officer in the Nigeria Police Force directory.
Suspect Arrested, Victim Rescued
Police said the coordinated operation led to the arrest of one suspect and the rescue of the victim, identified as Mr Emmanuel. The man was secured and taken for medical attention, according to the command.
The arrested suspect was identified by police as 23-year-old Sunday Rufus, a native of Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State. The allegation against him has not been established in court, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Police Report Recovery of AK-47, Ammunition and Tricycle
The command said operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle, two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and a white tricycle bearing registration number PHC 756 ZY.
Police said investigations and efforts to apprehend other suspected members of the group are ongoing.
Commissioner Commends Operatives
The statement quoted Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju as reaffirming the command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
Adepoju commended the officers involved in the operation for their prompt response and professionalism. He said the command would continue coordinated operations against suspected kidnappers and other violent criminal groups.
Police Urge Residents to Provide Information
The Rivers State Police Command urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible, timely information to security agencies. The command said community cooperation is important in efforts to prevent and combat kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The investigation continues as police seek other suspected members of the group. Follow us on X for updates.
Read also:
- Police Arrest Suspected Kidnapper, Recover Vehicle, Firearms In Rivers
- Rivers Police Arrest Five Suspected Kidnappers, Foil Criminal Network
By Chris Eze
