The Rivers State Police Command has apprehended a suspected notorious armed robber and recovered multiple firearms and live ammunition in an intelligence-led operation. The suspect, identified as Austine Emenike, popularly known as “Oyibo,” of Aluu Village, is believed to be linked to a wider criminal network operating in the state.
Arrest and Recovery Details
ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the command’s spokesperson, disclosed the development in a statement on Monday, June 29, 2026. According to Kaborlo, operatives acted on credible intelligence and swiftly arrested Emenike. Items recovered from the suspect include one locally made pistol, four single-barrel guns, and five live cartridges.
“The Rivers State Police Command has recorded another major operational success in its relentless campaign against violent crime, with the arrest of a suspected armed robber and the recovery of multiple firearms and live ammunition in a targeted intelligence-led operation,” the statement read.
Ongoing Investigations
Preliminary findings indicate that Emenike is part of a broader criminal network. Investigators are actively pursuing leads to identify and arrest other gang members and uncover the full scope of their activities. The police have not disclosed further details about the network at this stage.
Police Commissioner’s Remarks
The Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the operatives for their courage, professionalism, and commitment to duty. He reaffirmed the command’s determination to deny criminals any safe haven within the state.
“This arrest and the recovery of these dangerous weapons underscore our resolve to proactively tackle violent crime and protect the law-abiding people of Rivers State. We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations until criminal elements are completely rooted out,” CP Adepoju stated.
Call for Public Cooperation
CP Adepoju further called on residents to remain vigilant and security-conscious, urging them to promptly report suspicious persons, movements, or activities to the police. He emphasized that public cooperation and credible intelligence remain indispensable in the collective effort to build a safer and more secure Rivers State.
