Police Nab Four Kidnapping, Armed Robbery Suspects, Recover Ammunition

The Rivers State Police Command, in its fight against crime, has arrested four notorious suspects involved in kidnappings and armed robbery.

Commissioner of Police, Mustapha Bala, addressed the press, on Wednesday, revealing the command’s recent achievements.

He said: “We have successfully apprehended four suspects, bringing relief to residents and commuters who have been terrorized by their activities.

According to the Police Commissioner, Three suspects, Blessing Akpelu (20), Precious Ebee (30), and Wisdom Oto Amadi (28), all from Egbeda in Emohua LGA, were arrested for their involvement in a series of highway robberies and kidnappings along the Port Harcourt-Owerri Expressway.

The gang, known for setting up illegal roadblocks, had been under police surveillance following an increase in kidnappings, including the abduction of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member and two others.

He said the suspects were arrested on October 17 and 19, 2024, after police traced their whereabouts through intelligence gathering.

“They have confessed to kidnapping and further investigations are ongoing to apprehend remaining accomplices and recover their operational weapons,” the state police boss added.

In a separate development, CP Mustapha said operatives of the Command conducted two coordinated raids on criminal hideouts in Elechi Beach and Nanka waterfront areas in Port Harcourt City Council of the state.

He noted that rhe operations led to the arrest of Baridam Berebom, a notorious armed robber, and the recovery of a vehicle, arms, and ammunition.

In the first operation, on October 18, 2024, police seized an English revolver pistol with 35 rounds of 8.1mm live ammunition and an Excam Hialeah pistol with two rounds of 9mm live ammunition.

While In the second operation, a blue Toyota Corolla, stolen at gunpoint, was recovered, and Berebom was arrested with an SMG Rifle used to rob an NYSC corps member.

He further stated that the recovered vehicle, a blue Toyota Corolla with Registration number BDG 44 HE, belonged to one Iviuboosun Usanavi Okuru of No. 24 Ada Williams, was robbed at gunpoint along Education Bus-Stop.

He said: “The police also recovered the victim’s iPhone 12 and the operational weapon used in the robbery.”

Mustapha assured the public of its vigilance in ensuring safety along the Port Harcourt-Owerri Expressway and urged citizens to report suspicious activities.

He, however, emphasized the importance of public cooperation, stating, “Together, we can make Rivers State a safer place for all.”

Adding that All suspects will be charged to court, while ensuring due process and justice are served.