Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have successfully apprehended a suspected member of a notorious kidnapping syndicate following a botched abduction attempt in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Port Harcourt.
The operation, which took place on 20 March, resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 assault rifles, four magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition.
The breakthrough followed a distress report filed by a resident, Mr Fadi Nasser. According to the Command’s Spokesperson, Superintendent of Police (SP) Grace Iringe-Koko, armed assailants invaded Mr Nasser’s residence on Orogbum Crescent, off Woji Road. The victim managed to escape the premises under a hail of gunfire as the intruders attempted to seize him.
During the preliminary investigation at the scene, detectives recovered a mobile telephone reasonably suspected to have been dropped by one of the assailants.
Utilising forensic data retrieved from the recovered device, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit tracked and arrested a suspect identified as Joseph Abibo.
Upon interrogation, Mr Abibo provided critical intelligence that led officers to the syndicate’s hideout. However, the arrival of the police was met with heavy resistance. SP Iringe-Koko stated:
“As our officers approached the hideout, they came under immediate fire from the remaining gang members. A fierce exchange ensued, during which the suspects fled the scene. We have reason to believe that at least six members of the group sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter.”
A thorough search of the abandoned premises led to the discovery of a significant cache of weaponry. The recovered items include: Two AK-47 rifles, Four loaded magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition.
The Rivers State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of residents and has intensified efforts to track down the fleeing suspects. The authorities have issued an appeal to the public particularly medical practitioners—to report any individuals seeking treatment for suspicious gunshot injuries.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and provide any pertinent information that may lead to the total dismantling of the criminal gang.
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