RIVERS POLICE ARREST SUSPECTED KIDNAPPER, RECOVER WEAPONS AND VEHICLE

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old man, Victor Ini, over his alleged involvement in the abduction of a woman identified as Loveth in Eleme Local Government Area of the state. The suspect, a native of Akwa Ibom State, was apprehended by operatives of the Eleme Police Division during an intelligence-led operation launched following the September 2, 2026 kidnapping incident.

According to the police, Loveth was abducted while sitting in front of her shop when armed men allegedly approached her, fired shots into the air and forced her into a vehicle before driving away. Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, directed operatives to intensify surveillance and intelligence gathering aimed at tracking down members of the suspected kidnapping gang.

The police said operatives encountered the suspected kidnappers during the operation, leading to a gun duel and the eventual arrest of Ini. A search linked to the operation reportedly resulted in the recovery of a silver-coloured mini Keke bus with registration number RBC 992 XE, two locally made pistols, one live round of ammunition, a mobile phone, two identity cards, two black gowns and a vehicle number plate bearing registration number KRK 528 HG.

The Rivers Police Command described the arrest and recovery of the exhibits as an important breakthrough in its investigation, while efforts are continuing to identify and apprehend other members of the alleged gang. Police spokesperson ASP Blessing Agabe said the command was intensifying intelligence and surveillance operations across the state to disrupt kidnapping networks and other violent criminal activities.

The Commissioner of Police assured residents that the command would continue to deploy all lawful resources to protect lives and property and ensure that those responsible for kidnapping and other violent crimes face prosecution. He also urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly during the Ember months, and provide credible information that could assist security agencies in preventing and investigating criminal activities across Rivers State.