The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of at least 13 suspects linked to the assault of journalists and other criminal activities within Port Harcourt and its environs.
The command said the suspects were picked up following recent attacks that targeted media practitioners and heightened concerns over rising insecurity in parts of the state capital.
One of the incidents involved Mr. Allwell Ene, a journalist with Megaletrics, operators of Classic FM 92.1, Beat FM 99.9, and Naija FM 92.7, who was reportedly attacked by a group of suspected hoodlums while carrying out an investigation around the Garrison axis of Port Harcourt.
In a separate case, Mr. Charles Opurum of Channels Television was also allegedly assaulted by miscreants near a filling station around the Rumuola axis while driving into the area, further raising alarm over the safety of journalists on duty.
The attacks sparked outrage among civil society organisations, which accused security agencies of slow response in apprehending those responsible and allowing criminal elements to operate freely at major bus stops and public areas.
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Following widespread criticism and media reports on rising street crime in the city, the police said they launched coordinated operations across affected areas.
According to the command, the crackdown led to the arrest of 13 suspects believed to be involved in phone snatching, harassment of residents, and other related offences.
A statement from the police spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, noted that the Commissioner of Police ordered an immediate investigation after receiving reports of the attacks and personally engaged the affected journalist for clarification.
Security operatives, especially from the Olu-Obasanjo Division, were deployed to rescue victims and restore order in affected locations.
The police further stated that investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest additional suspects connected to the incidents.
Authorities also advised journalists and private investigators to avoid working alone in high-risk areas and to collaborate with security agencies when conducting sensitive assignments.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to restoring safety in Port Harcourt and tackling criminal gangs operating within the state.
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