The Rivers State Police Command has uncovered a suspected murder and robbery syndicate, leading to the arrest of three suspects, the exhumation of a victim’s body from a shallow grave and the recovery of a stolen vehicle in what authorities described as a major breakthrough against violent crime in the state.

The victim, identified as 55-year-old Christopher Akpabio, an indigene of Akwa Ibom State, was allegedly lured to his death after being hired by the suspects under the pretext of transporting them to Asarama Community in Andoni Local Council for a traditional marriage ceremony.

Police said the incident was reported on May 22, 2026, following Akpabio’s disappearance. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly planned to murder the commercial driver and dispossess him of his vehicle, a black Daihatsu Hijet minibus with registration number BGM 328 DA.

A statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Kaborlo, on behalf of the command, said investigators later discovered the victim’s remains buried in a shallow grave in Asarama Community.

The statement disclosed that operatives of the command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Diobu, acting on the directives of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, launched an intelligence-driven operation that led to the arrest of three suspects on May 28.

The suspects were identified as David Mark, 30, and Nkajit Williams, 45, both natives of Andoni Local Council, as well as Godgift John, 33, from Okrika Local Council.

During the operation, police recovered the stolen minibus allegedly taken from the deceased after the murder. The statement added that the victim’s remains had been deposited at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital mortuary for preservation and further forensic examination.

Police authorities said efforts had been intensified to apprehend a fourth suspect who remains at large. The command described the breakthrough as part of ongoing efforts to combat violent crimes and ensure the safety of residents across the state.

Reacting to the development, Adepoju reiterated the command’s commitment to rooting out criminal elements and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice.

The police also urged members of the public, particularly commercial drivers, to exercise caution when entering transportation or business arrangements with unfamiliar persons.

According to the command, drivers embarking on long-distance journeys should always inform family members, colleagues or trusted associates of their destinations and movements.

Residents were further encouraged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency response channels.

The Rivers State Police Command assured residents that it remained resolute in its determination to protect lives and property and deny criminals safe haven within the state.