The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a suspected armed robber and recovered multiple firearms and live ammunition during an intelligence-led operation aimed at tackling violent crime in the state.
The suspect, identified as Austine Emenike, popularly known as “Oyibo,” is from Aluu community in Rivers State.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the arrest followed credible intelligence and was carried out in line with the directives of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju.
Items recovered from the suspect include one locally made pistol, four single-barrel guns and five live cartridges.
The police said preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect is linked to a wider criminal network. They added that efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the gang, as well as uncover the full extent of their criminal activities.
Commending the operatives for the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police praised their courage, professionalism and dedication to duty, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to denying criminals safe haven in Rivers State.
“This arrest and the recovery of these dangerous weapons underscore our resolve to proactively tackle violent crime and protect the law-abiding people of Rivers State. We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations until criminal elements are completely rooted out,” Adepoju said.
The Commissioner also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, movements and activities to the police, stressing that public cooperation and credible intelligence are critical to improving security across the state.
