The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of a journalist and the arrest of 13 suspects following an alleged assault incident in Port Harcourt.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, said the Commissioner of Police, Olugenga Adewole Adepoju, ordered an immediate response after the Command became aware of an online publication detailing the incident.
According to the police, the victim, identified as Allwell Ene, was attacked by suspected hoodlums while carrying out a solo investigative assignment in a known crime-prone area described as a “black spot.” The assailants reportedly targeted him for filming their activities.
The statement noted that the Divisional Police Officer of Olu-Obasanjo Division promptly deployed operatives to the scene, leading to the successful rescue of the journalist.
Subsequently, the Command launched coordinated operations across the Olu-Obasanjo axis and surrounding areas, resulting in the arrest of 13 suspects. Police said the suspects are believed to be involved in crimes such as phone theft and harassment of residents.
The Command added that investigations are ongoing, with efforts intensified to ensure all those involved are apprehended and prosecuted.
The Commissioner of Police advised journalists and private investigators against undertaking risky assignments alone, especially in crime-prone areas, urging them to collaborate with security agencies for safety.
He also called on residents to provide timely and credible information to law enforcement authorities to aid crime prevention and maintain public order.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Rivers State while continuing its crackdown on criminal elements.
