In a dramatic turn of events, operatives of the Rivers State Police Command successfully thwarted a kidnapping attempt in Oyigbo, Rivers State, rescuing the victim and recovering weapons used by the perpetrators.
The incident highlights the efficiency of the police in tackling rising criminal activities in the region.
The victim, identified as Madabuchi Julius, was abducted on Sunday night near Sabbath Filling Station, Oyigbo, by a gang of four armed men in a black Toyota Corolla. Acting swiftly on a distress call, police officers mobilized to the scene and gave chase to the kidnappers.
As the officers pursued them to Egbu Street, a gunfight ensued. Overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the police, the kidnappers abandoned their victim and operational vehicle, fleeing the scene.
The victim was rescued unharmed, and the police recovered the vehicle, bearing registration number RIVERS PHC 938 AH, along with one firearm.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, praised the officers for their swift action. In her statement, she disclosed:
“On November 17, 2024, at about 8:23 PM, operatives of the Command responded to a distress call regarding an abduction at Sabbath Filling Station, Oyigbo.
Their quick response led to the rescue of the victim and recovery of the kidnappers’ operational vehicle and a firearm. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.”
In a related development, the police arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Gabriel Morris, in a covert operation on November 18.
The suspect, linked to a criminal syndicate operating in Oyigbo, confessed to being part of the group terrorizing the area.
Items recovered from Morris included a locally made pistol and a quantity of Indian hemp.
The police are intensifying efforts to capture other members of the gang and dismantle the network.
This incident comes amidst growing concerns over criminal activities in Rivers State.
The police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and have urged the public to provide timely information to aid their operations.
The swift rescue of the kidnap victim and the arrest of a gang member underscore the importance of coordinated efforts between security agencies and communities.
While investigations continue, the success of these operations serves as a reminder of the critical role of proactive policing in maintaining public safety.
As Rivers State battles rising insecurity, the police’s recent achievements offer hope for a more secure environment, with authorities intensifying their crackdown on crime syndicates across the region.