Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in Rivers State have arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate and recovered two AK-47 rifles, magazines, and ammunition following a foiled abduction attempt in Port Harcourt.
The operation forms part of intensified security measures under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at curbing violent crimes across the country.
The Command’s spokesperson, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed that the incident occurred in the early hours of March 20, 2026, after a distress call was received from a 35-year-old resident, Fadi Nasser.
According to her, heavily armed men invaded the victim’s residence located on Orogbum Crescent along Woji Road in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), attempting to carry out an abduction.
The assailants reportedly opened fire during the attack. However, in what officials described as a dramatic and fortunate escape, the victim managed to flee unharmed, enabling a swift response by security operatives.
Iringe-Koko explained that the breakthrough in the investigation came when police recovered a mobile phone believed to belong to one of the suspects at the scene.
Acting on this lead, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit in Aluu deployed technical intelligence to track the device, leading to the arrest of one Joseph Abibo, identified as a member of the gang.
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During interrogation, the suspect reportedly provided valuable information that led operatives to the group’s hideout.
However, upon arrival, police operatives came under heavy gunfire from other gang members, resulting in a fierce exchange.
“Police operatives engaged the suspects in a gun duel and eventually overpowered them. Several gang members fled the scene, with about six suspects escaping into a nearby river, reportedly with gunshot wounds,” Iringe-Koko stated.
A subsequent search of the hideout led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition believed to have been used in the gang’s operations.
The police spokesperson added that a coordinated manhunt is currently underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons.
She noted that the operation highlights the Command’s renewed efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and strengthen security across Rivers State.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information.
The Command also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring the public that further updates will be provided as investigations continue.
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