Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have successfully rescued a kidnapped victim and eliminated two suspected kidnappers in a fierce gunfight within Emohua Local Government Area.
Daring Rescue Operation in Forest Hideout
The breakthrough came after the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU), Emohua Annex, launched a carefully planned, intelligence-driven operation. According to the Police Public Relations Officer for Rivers State Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the victim, a woman from Omademe Community, was abducted on Friday, December 5, 2025, along Ozuaha Road.
The kidnappers had contacted the family, demanding a ransom of N1.2 million and threatening to kill the victim if the money was not paid quickly. The victim's brother reported the crime to the police on December 9, 2025, seeking urgent intervention to secure her release.
Intense Gun Battle Leads to Neutralization
Acting on credible intelligence, a police team stormed the kidnappers' hideout located in a forested area off Ozuaha Road at about 11:30 a.m. The operatives discovered the suspects sharing the ransom money.
Upon sighting the police, the heavily armed kidnappers opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange of gunshots. The police responded with what was described as exemplary bravery and professionalism.
In the ensuing confrontation, two of the kidnappers were neutralized. The other suspects fled into the dense forest, believed to be carrying gunshot wounds. The rescued victim was found unharmed.
Exhibits Recovered and Police Commendation
The police recovered significant items from the scene, including:
- A portion of the ransom money.
- One pump-action rifle.
- Five live cartridges.
- Two expended cartridges.
- One locally-made pistol.
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, praised the operatives for their bravery and dedication, noting that they risked their lives to ensure the victim's safe return.
The police have launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects and are urging members of the public with any credible information to come forward and assist the authorities in apprehending them.
