The Rivers State Police Command has arrested three suspected kidnappers linked to multiple abductions in the state, including the killing of one victim after ransom was collected.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, operatives of the Anti-Cultism Unit, Emohua Annex, carried out a coordinated operation on September 19, 2025, at about 2:00 a.m., leading to the arrest of the suspects in Obio/Akpor and Ikwerre Local Government Areas.
The suspects were identified as Hassan Mohammed, 20, from Borno State; Bello Abubakar, 25, from Sokoto State; and Yusuf Ahmed, 23, from Bauchi State.
During interrogation, the trio confessed to their involvement in several kidnappings, including the abduction of Onwuli Jude and Nwabueze Nchekwube on September 24, 2025, at School Road, Igwuruta-Atali. They reportedly collected ₦6.9 million ransom before killing Nchekwube. The suspects also admitted to the kidnapping of one Mercy Chinyere on September 12, 2025, at the same location, during which they received ₦3.5 million ransom before releasing her.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, praised the bravery and diligence of the operatives, stressing the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property. He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The suspects and recovered exhibits remain in police custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang.
