The Rivers State Police Command has made a breakthrough in a disturbing case of abduction and murder, leading to the recovery of a body and the arrest of two prime suspects.
Victim Reported Missing After Land Dispute Visit
According to an official statement from the command's spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the incident revolves around Sampson Worianime, a young man from Ogbogbo Community in Okrika. Worianime was reported missing on November 11, 2025. He had last been seen while accompanying other youths from his community to measure land at their old settlement.
Anti-Kidnapping Unit Investigation Leads to Arrests
The investigation was launched by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU) after a formal petition was submitted by the victim's mother. The police work yielded swift results, leading to the apprehension of two individuals from Aleto-Eleme Community.
The arrested suspects have been identified as:
- Igwe Alex, a 26-year-old male who served as the Community Security Officer (CSO) of Aleto-Eleme.
- John Mikel, a 24-year-old male, also from Aleto-Eleme.
Suspects Confess to Kidnapping and Murder
During preliminary interrogation, the suspects confessed to the crime. They admitted to abducting two youths from Okrika. While one victim managed to escape, Sampson Worianime was not as fortunate. The suspects confessed to killing him and disposing of his body by dumping it into a nearby river.
Subsequently, the suspects led police operatives to a specific location where the corpse had been buried. The remains of the deceased were exhumed from a shallow grave and recovered for proper procedures.
Police Assure Full Investigation, Hunt for Accomplices
SP Iringe-Koko confirmed that the two suspects are currently in police custody and are cooperating with the investigative team. She added that efforts are actively underway to track down and apprehend other accomplices who may have been involved in the heinous act.
The Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, has taken a direct interest in the case. He has issued a directive for a thorough and comprehensive investigation to ensure that every person responsible for this crime is identified and made to face the full consequences of the law.
This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the affected communities of Okrika and Aleto-Eleme, highlighting ongoing concerns about land disputes and youth safety in the region.
