The Rivers State Police Command has announced the arrest of three suspected kidnappers alleged to have been behind a string of abductions in Port Harcourt and surrounding communities. Shockingly, the suspects were said to have killed two of their victims even after collecting ransom payments that amounted to ₦10.4 million.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the arrests followed a distress call reporting the kidnap of one Humphrey Wagbara in Igwuruta-Atali, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Swift Police Response
Operatives from the Anti-Cultism Unit, Emohua Annex, immediately swung into action. In a coordinated midnight operation on September 19, 2025, they tracked down and arrested the suspects from hideouts across Obio/Akpor and Ikwerre LGAs.
The arrested suspects, all young men in their early 20s, were identified as:
- Hassan Mohammed, 20, from Wandigah Town in Adamawa State
- Bello Abubakar, 25, from Sokoto State
- Yusuf Ahmed, 23, from Hazari, Bauchi State
Confessions and Shocking Revelations
During interrogation, the trio reportedly confessed to several kidnappings across the state. Most disturbing was their admission that they collected ransom payments but still went on to murder some victims.
- On September 24, 2025, they abducted Onwuli Jude and Nwabueze Nchekwube at School Road, Igwuruta-Atali. After extorting ₦6.9 million, they killed Nchekwube.
- On September 12, 2025, they kidnapped Mercy Chinyere, also from Igwuruta-Atali, and released her after collecting ₦3.5 million.
Police said they recovered from the suspects a G-3 Rifle, a magazine, and an Itel phone belonging to victim Humphrey Wagbara.
Community Impact and Security Implications
The arrests bring some relief to residents of Obio/Akpor, Igwuruta, and other parts of Rivers State that have witnessed rising cases of abductions in recent months. The brutality of abductors killing victims despite ransom payments underscores the growing menace of violent criminal gangs and the urgent need for stronger security measures.
Police Assurances
SP Grace Iringe-Koko reassured the public that the Rivers State Police Command remains committed to stamping out criminal networks. She encouraged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
Final Thoughts
While the arrests mark a positive step in the fight against kidnapping in Rivers State, the confessions of these suspects highlight the dangers faced by victims and their families. The case also raises broader questions about youth involvement in violent crimes and the proliferation of illegal firearms in communities.
As investigations continue, residents hope that these arrests serve as a deterrent to others and that justice will be served for the victims who lost their lives even after ransom payments were made.
