The Rivers State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its sustained fight against kidnapping and armed robbery, with the successful rescue of a kidnapped woman and the neutralisation of two suspected kidnappers during a coordinated operation in Emohua Local Government Area.
Operatives attached to the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU), Emohua Annex, acted on credible intelligence to rescue the victim, a female indigene of Omademe Community, who was abducted on Friday, December 5, 2025, along Ozuaha Road in Emohua.
Police sources disclosed that the operation followed a report made on December 9, 2025, by the victim’s brother, who sought police assistance after the abductors demanded a ransom of One Million, Two Hundred Thousand Naira (₦1.2 million). The kidnappers had reportedly threatened to kill the victim if the ransom was not paid promptly.
Determined to save the victim and apprehend the perpetrators, police operatives swiftly mobilised and carried out an intelligence-led operation aimed at dismantling the criminal gang.
At about 11:30 a.m., the police team covertly stormed the kidnappers’ hideout located in a forested area off Ozuaha Road, where the suspects were allegedly sharing the ransom proceeds.
Upon sighting the operatives, the armed suspects reportedly opened fire, leading to a fierce gun duel. In the ensuing exchange, two of the kidnappers were neutralised, while others escaped into the forest with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
The victim was rescued unhurt during the operation, and part of the ransom money was recovered at the scene.
Items recovered from the kidnappers’ hideout include one pump-action rifle, five live cartridges, two expended cartridges, and one locally made pistol. All recovered exhibits have been secured and are currently in police custody to aid ongoing investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, commended the bravery, professionalism and dedication of the operatives who risked their lives to ensure the victim’s safe rescue.
The police boss reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order across the state, urging members of the public to provide credible information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspects.
He further directed that investigations into the incident be expedited to ensure the arrest of all remaining members of the kidnapping syndicate, recovery of the outstanding ransom, and their prosecution in accordance with the law.
The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its resolve to sustain aggressive operations against criminal elements to keep the state safe for residents and visitors alike.
The press release was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Rivers State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, ANIPR.
