Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in Rivers State have arrested a suspected member of kidnapping gang and recovered two AK-47 rifles, magazines, and ammunition after foiling an abduction attempt in Port Harcourt.

The operation is part of ongoing security reinforcement efforts under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

The Command’s Spokesperson, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the incident occurred in the early hours of March 20, 2026, following a distress call from a 35-year-old resident, Fadi Nasser.

The victim reported that heavily armed men stormed his residence on Orogbum Crescent, along Woji Road in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), attempting to abduct her.

Iringe-Koko explained that the attackers reportedly opened fire during the invasion, but in a dramatic turn, the victim managed to escape unharmed, an outcome security officials described as both fortunate and pivotal in enabling a swift police response.

She added that investigations gained momentum when operatives recovered a mobile phone believed to belong to one of the suspects at the scene.

Iringe-Koko further stated that the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit based in Aluu deployed technical intelligence to track the device, leading to the arrest of Joseph Abibo, identified as a member of the kidnapping syndicate.

Under interrogation, Abibo reportedly provided useful information that led police operatives to the gang’s hideout.

However, upon arrival, officers came under heavy gunfire from other members of the group, triggering a fierce exchange.

She said: “Police operatives engaged the suspects in a gun duel and eventually overpowered them. In the aftermath, several gang members fled the scene, with our men confirming that about six suspects escaped into a nearby river, reportedly with gunshot wounds.

“A thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition believed to have been used in the gang’s operations.”

She noted that a coordinated manhunt is currently underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons.

Iringe-Koko stated that the operation underscores intensified efforts by the command to dismantle kidnapping networks and combat violent crime across Rivers State.

She, therefore, urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.

The command also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring the public that further updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses.