By: Felix Ikpotor
The Rivers State Police Command says it has arrested some suspects alleged to be part of a gang terrorising Oyigbo axis of the state.
The Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko said in a statement that the suspects were arrested on 25th January 2025 during an operation following credible information received by men of the command.
The statement reads: “At about 1430 hours, acting on credible intelligence regarding the activities of criminal elements, operatives from the Hawk Unit conducted a targeted raid at Blessing Street, Kom-Kom in Oyigbo Local Government Area. The operation led to the arrest of four male suspects: Peter Victor, aged 38, from Una Eket, Akwa Ibom State, Joshua Ibe, aged 25, from Amadugba, Orlu LGA, Imo State, Shedrack David, aged 22, from Ikotumoesen, Eseni Udim LGA, Akwa Ibom State and Joseph Acholam, aged 23, from Arochukwu LGA, Abia State”.
She said items recovered from the suspects includes one round of 7.62×51mm live ammunition and containers with liquid substances suspected to be hard drugs.
Iringe-Koko said during interrogation, the suspects admitted to being part of a criminal syndicate responsible for various acts of terror in Oyigbo and its surrounding areas, adding that they are currently providing valuable information to aid further investigations, including efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate and recover additional weapons.
Also, the police said at approximately 0100 hours on same day, operatives from the Rumuji Division, while conducting a routine stop-and-search operation along the East-West Road, intercepted a black Toyota Sienna with registration number ABIA, APR 455 HW and driven by one Frank Ukpebitere, a male suspect.
Upon inspection, the officers discovered that the vehicle was transporting 2,000 tons of 48 VDC Power System Cabinets, identified as the property of Airtel Telecommunications Company.
The police said the suspect failed to provide a satisfactory explanation or documentation for the transportation of the items, which are suspected to have been stolen.
Iringe-Koko said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in police custody while investigations continue.
The police further assured the public of its unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order in the state while encouraging members of the public to provide timely information to assist the police in ensuring the safety of all residents.
