The Rivers State Police Command has arrested five suspected criminals in connection with the recent attack on its operatives at a filling station in the Elioparanwo axis of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were apprehended following a swift response from the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, which was deployed after the incident. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police Grace Iringe-Koko, the suspects are believed to have been part of the gang that assaulted the operatives and carted away two service rifles during the encounter.
She disclosed that the arrests were made after a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation ordered by the Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Olugbenga Adepoju. The incident occurred on November 12, 2025, when the hoodlums launched a surprise attack on the officers stationed at the petrol station.
The arrested suspects include Anselem Paul, 45, from Imo State; Supurchi Ejifor, also known as “Emejaka,” 48, from Abia State; Bright Nwabueze, popularly called “Bishop,” 53, from Abia State; Utibe Sunday, 24, from Akwa Ibom State; and Ebuka Ruben, 32, from Ebonyi State, alleged to be the mastermind of the operation.
Iringe-Koko stated that the suspects have been linked to other criminal activities within Port Harcourt and its environs. She added that two rifles stolen from the operatives during the attack have been recovered.
The police spokesperson assured residents that efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang and recover any other weapons in their possession. She reiterated the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Rivers State.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police commended the officers involved in the operation, stressing that the Command would continue to intensify its crackdown on armed gangs and violent criminals operating in the state.
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