Police Capture Criminals Targeting Highway Travelers

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested three individuals linked to a dangerous kidnapping group, specifically targeting civilians along the Port Harcourt-Owerri highway. The suspects have been identified as Blessing Akpelu, Precious Ebee, and Wisdom Oto Amadi.

On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Mustapha Bala, announced the arrests during a press briefing held at police headquarters in Port Harcourt. He revealed that the gang is responsible for numerous armed robberies and kidnappings, including a recent case involving a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member.

The police noted that the gang would frequently establish illegal checkpoints along the expressway, where they would ambush motorists at gunpoint, taking hostages for ransom demands.

“The Rivers State Police Command is dedicated to safeguarding the residents of the state. Today, we are presenting several arrested suspects involved in various criminal enterprises,” CP Bala stated.

Details on the Arrests

The police are intensifying their efforts to combat criminal activities along the highway, which has seen an increase in violence against road users. The arrested gang members, all from Egbeda in Emohua LGA, are known for coordinating traps for unsuspecting travelers. They were under watch due to a rise in kidnappings, including the abduction of a NYSC member and others along the Elele/Omerelu stretch of the expressway.

The initial two arrests occurred on October 17, 2024, by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, while Wisdom Oto Amadi, identified as the gang’s leader, was apprehended on October 19. The suspects have reportedly admitted to their roles in the kidnappings, with their capture facilitated by police intelligence.

The investigation continues as police pursue additional gang members and aim to recover weaponry used in their operations, alongside revealing the full extent of their criminal activities.

“We assure the public of our commitment to ensuring the safety of all individuals on the Port Harcourt-Owerri Expressway. We urge citizens to stay alert and report any suspicious activities,” emphasized the police chief.

Coordinated Police Operations Targeting Criminal Hubs

In a related operation, the police successfully executed raids in the Elechi Beach and Nanka waterfront areas, aiming to dismantle suspected criminal hideouts.

“Using credible intelligence, our C4i Strike Force conducted operations that resulted in the capture of a noted armed robber and the recovery of stolen property,” CP Bala reported.

The first raid, which took place around 7 PM on October 18, 2024, at Elechi Beach, led to the seizure of an English revolver and an Excam pistol, along with live ammunition. Suspects managed to escape into a nearby river.

The subsequent operation at Nanka waterfront yielded a stolen blue Toyota Corolla, along with an arrest of a suspect, Baridam Berebom, who was found in possession of an SMG rifle used in a robbery targeting a female NYSC member.

“The swift response to a robbery incident allowed us to apprehend one of the criminals while others fled, and we recovered the victim’s phone and stolen weapon,” the police commissioner added.

The Rivers State Police Command is diligently working to capture all individuals involved in these crimes and is encouraging the public to assist in providing any information regarding illicit activities.

The ongoing operations reflect a steadfast commitment to maintaining law and order, ensuring the safety of community members, and pursuing justice for victims of crime.

“Together, we can help ensure that Rivers State remains a safe environment for everyone. We will adhere strictly to legal procedures, and all apprehended suspects will face justice,” CP Bala concluded.