The Rivers State Police Command has successfully rescued a kidnap victim and recovered an operational vehicle used by the suspects in Oyigbo Local Government Area of the state.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the rescue operation occurred on November 17, 2024, following a distress call reporting an armed gang’s activities at Sabbath Filling Station, Oyigbo.
“At about 8:23 pm, operatives received information that four armed men, operating in a black Toyota Corolla, abducted one Mr. Madabuchi Julius and shot sporadically to create panic,” SP Iringe-Koko explained.
Swiftly responding to the call, police operatives pursued the suspects, intercepting them along Egbu Street, Oyigbo. A gunfight ensued, during which the suspects abandoned the victim and their vehicle—a black Toyota Corolla with registration number Rivers PHC 938 AH.
“The hoodlums could not withstand the superior firepower of our operatives,” SP Iringe-Koko said. “The victim was rescued unhurt, and the vehicle was recovered.”
Investigations are ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover their weapons.
In a related operation on November 18, 2024, at about 10:48 PM, the police apprehended a 25-year-old suspect, Gabriel Morris, during a covert operation on St. Lorinta Street, Oyigbo.
“The suspect, who resides in Mercy Ground, Kom-Kom, confessed to being part of a syndicate responsible for terrorizing Oyigbo and its environs,” the police spokesperson stated.
Recovered items included a locally made pistol and a quantity of substances believed to be Indian hemp.
SP Iringe-Koko emphasized the Command’s dedication to fighting crime in the state, saying, “These successful operations highlight our commitment to combating kidnapping and other forms of criminal activity in Rivers State.”
