The Rivers State Police Command has successfully apprehended a twenty-six-year-old man in connection with the abduction and subsequent murder of Miss Rita Special Eleonu, a twenty-five-year-old resident of the Rumuekini Community.
The suspect, identified as Goodnews Iberi, a native of the Rumuakunde Community within the Emohua Local Government Area, was taken into custody following a distressing report lodged by the victim’s brother.
In a formal statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, it was revealed that the tragic sequence of events commenced on 13 December 2025. It is alleged that the suspect, acting alongside four accomplices who currently remain at large, lured Miss Eleonu to the Rumuakunde axis of Emohua.
Upon her arrival, the victim was forcibly taken to a secluded woodland area, colloquially referred to as an “evil forest,” situated along the East-West Road. The Command disclosed that the perpetrators extorted a ransom of 210,000 Naira from the victim’s family; however, notwithstanding the receipt of these funds, the assailants proceeded to murder Miss Eleonu.
The breakthrough in the investigation occurred on 8 January 2026. Utilising intelligence-led policing strategies, operatives from the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU), Emohua annex, conducted a dawn raid on the suspect’s hideout at approximately 06:30 hours.
“During preliminary interrogation, the suspect voluntarily confessed to the crime, detailing his specific role and further incriminating four other accomplices,” the statement read. Following his confession, Mr Iberi led police operatives to the site where the victim’s decomposing remains were discovered. Her body has since been recovered and deposited at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) mortuary pending a forensic autopsy.
The Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, commended the diligence and “swift action” of the officers involved in the arrest. He reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to the eradication of violent crime and confirmed that an in-depth investigation is presently underway to track down the remaining members of the criminal syndicate.
The Commissioner further urged the public to remain vigilant and to maintain their confidence in the police service. He stressed that community cooperation and the provision of credible intelligence are essential components in the collective effort to ensure the safety and security of all citizens across the state.
