The Rivers State Police Command has announced a major and swift breakthrough in the armed robbery and car snatching incident that went viral on social media. According to an official press statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, a day after the daylight crime, police operatives successfully apprehended one of the key suspects involved, Africa Update has learnt.
The incident occurred on October 15, 2025, at approximately 1500hrs (3:00 PM), in the Choba area of Port Harcourt, where armed criminals forcibly snatched a Toyota Avalon at gunpoint. Footage of the brazen attack had circulated widely, sparking public concern.
Acting on immediate and intensive investigation, supported by intelligence-led policing and technical support, operatives of the Command swiftly tracked down and arrested 42-year-old Iruo Young M. at his hideout in the Ikoku area of Port Harcourt.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly offered a voluntary confession detailing his involvement in the high-profile robbery.
The arrested suspect is currently in police custody as the Command launches an in-depth manhunt. The focus of the expanded investigation is now on apprehending the other fleeing members of the gang, recovering the stolen Toyota Avalon vehicle, and retrieving the illegal firearms used during the commission of the crime.
CP Commends Operatives, Vows No Hiding Place
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, lauded the swiftness and diligence of the operatives, whose immediate action resulted in the significant arrest.
CP Adepoju also expressed profound gratitude to the general public for their proactive support and cooperation in providing credible and timely information, which proved instrumental to the operation’s success.
The Commissioner issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating in the state: “Rivers State will not provide a hiding place for criminals.” He reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all lives and property within the state.
The public is encouraged to maintain their vigilance and continue cooperating with law enforcement as the police work to conclude the ongoing investigation.