The Nigeria Police Force in Rivers State has arrested a suspected armed robber and recovered firearms and live ammunition, according to a statement from the command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, an assistant superintendent of police, on Monday.
Suspect Arrested on Credible Intelligence
The suspect, identified as Austine Emenike, popularly known as “Oyibo,” was taken into custody by operatives acting on credible intelligence. Emenike is from the Aluu community in Rivers State.
During the operation, officers recovered one locally made pistol, four single-barreled guns, and five live cartridges from the suspect.
Investigation Links Suspect to Criminal Network
Preliminary investigations have connected Emenike to a wider criminal network. The police statement noted that efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the alleged gang. “Investigators are currently pursuing vital leads aimed at identifying and arresting other members of the gang, as well as uncovering the full scope of their activities,” the statement said.
Police Commissioner Commends Operatives
The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the operatives for their courage, professionalism, and commitment to duty. He emphasized that the arrest and recovery of weapons reflect the command’s determination to combat violent crime across 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,” Adepoju said.
Call for Public Cooperation
Adepoju called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons, movements, or activities to the police, stressing that public cooperation and credible intelligence are critical to improving security in the state.
This arrest comes two days after PREMIUM TIMES reported that the police in Rivers recovered a pistol hidden in a loaf of bread and arrested a suspect.
