Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate and recovered weapons following a failed abduction try in Port Harcourt.
In a press release by the Police Public Relations Officer, Rivers State Police Command for the Commissioner of Police, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, mentioned the incident occurred within the early hours of March 20 after a 35-year-old resident, Fadi Nasser, raised an alarm over an assault on his residence alongside Orogbum Crescent, Woji Street, within the Authorities Reserved Space (GRA).
In accordance with the officer, armed males stormed the residence with the intention of abducting the sufferer and fired gunshots in the course of the operation.
The sufferer, nevertheless, managed to flee unhurt, prompting a swift response from safety operatives.
Investigators later recovered a cell phone believed to belong to one of many suspects on the scene.
Utilizing technical intelligence, operatives of the Particular Weapons and Ways (SWAT) unit tracked the machine, resulting in the arrest of a suspect recognized as Joseph Abibo.
Throughout interrogation, the suspect reportedly supplied helpful data that led officers to the gang’s hideout.
On arrival, the police workforce got here below heavy gunfire from different members of the group.
A gun battle ensued, forcing the suspects to retreat. Police sources disclosed that about six members of the gang escaped with gunshot accidents into a close-by river.
A search of the hideout led to the restoration of two AK-47 rifles, 4 magazines, and 108 rounds of reside ammunition.
The police mentioned efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, including that the operation is a part of renewed efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and deal with violent crimes within the state.
Residents have been inspired to stay alert and supply helpful data to safety companies.
The command reaffirmed its dedication to defending lives and property, assuring that updates might be supplied as investigations progress.