The Rivers State Police Command achieved a significant breakthrough on September 24, 2026, with the arrest of a suspected kidnapper, Sunday Rufus, aged 23, and the rescue of a kidnapped victim, Mr. Emmanuel. According to the police, the operation followed a distress call about an abduction by a group of criminals in the Eliozu–Rumuokoro axis of Port Harcourt. The police swiftly mobilized and intercepted the fleeing suspects, resulting in the arrest of one suspect and the rescue of the victim.
The police recovered several exhibits during the operation, including one AK-47 rifle, two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a white tricycle, popularly known as Keke, with registration number PHC 756 ZY. The arrested suspect, Sunday Rufus, is a native of Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State. The police stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal gang.
The Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, disclosed the details of the operation in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on September 26, 2026. The statement highlighted the swift response of the police to the distress call and the successful rescue of the kidnapped victim. The police command assured the public that it would sustain intelligence-driven and coordinated operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements across the state.
The State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the officers and operatives involved in the successful operation for their prompt response, courage, and professionalism. He emphasized that Rivers State would not be a safe haven for criminals and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible and timely information to the police.
Commissioner Adepoju stressed the importance of community cooperation in preventing and combating kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state. He encouraged the public to continue providing information to the police, stating that it was vital in the collective effort to maintain peace and security in Rivers State.
The police command's operation demonstrates its commitment to tackling kidnapping and other crimes in Rivers State. The arrest of Sunday Rufus and the rescue of Mr. Emmanuel are a testament to the police's efforts to ensure the safety and security of citizens. The command's spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, reiterated the police's dedication to protecting the public and maintaining law and order.
The incident highlights the need for continued collaboration between the police and the public to combat crime in Nigeria. The police command's achievement serves as a reminder that citizens can rely on the authorities to respond swiftly and effectively to reports of crime. The rescue of the kidnapped victim and the arrest of the suspect demonstrate the police's capability to respond to security challenges in Rivers State.
Key points
- The Rivers State Police Command arrested a 23-year-old suspected kidnapper and rescued a kidnapped victim in the Eliozu–Rumuokoro axis of Port Harcourt.
- The police recovered an AK-47 rifle and other exhibits during the operation, including a tricycle with registration number PHC 756 ZY.
- The police command assured the public that it would sustain intelligence-driven operations against kidnappers and other criminal elements across the state.
