Law enforcement officials in Rivers State successfully interrupted a kidnapping effort in Port Harcourt, resulting in the arrest of an alleged gang associate and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, accompanying magazines, and ammunition.
CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the state's police spokesperson, announced the development in a statement on Tuesday from Port Harcourt, emphasizing that this achievement signifies a crucial success in combating kidnapping in the area.
The operation was initiated following a distress call made in the early hours of March 20 by a 35-year-old individual who reported an incursion by armed men at his residence located on Orogbum Crescent, Woji Road, within the Government Reserved Area (GRA).
According to Iringe-Koko, the assailants attempted to abduct the resident and fired shots during their assault.
Fortunately, the victim managed to evade capture, a situation that security personnel described as both lucky and pivotal, aiding a swift police reaction.
"Investigations progressed following the recovery of a mobile phone believed to belong to one of the assailants found at the crime scene. Mirroring this lead, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit based in Aluu deployed technical intelligence to trace the device, resulting in the detention of one Joseph Abibo, identified as part of the gang," she elaborated.
"During questioning, the suspect reportedly provided vital information that directed police to the gang's hideout. However, upon arrival, the police team encountered heavy gunfire from the remaining gang members.
"The officers retaliated, ensuing in a firefight that ultimately subdued the suspects. During the chaos, numerous gang members fled the location, with police sources indicating that approximately six suspects escaped into a nearby river sustaining gunshot injuries.
"A search of the hideout yielded two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition, believed to have been utilized in their criminal activities," she concluded.
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