Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested five individuals and recovered three locally fabricated pump-action rifles during a raid on an alleged illegal security outfit operating in Sakpenwa, Tai Local Government Area of the state. The operation took place on May 6, 2026, and was conducted by the State Intelligence Department (SID) based on intelligence-led targeting.
Details of the Operation
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Blessing Agabe, the raid targeted a group that was reportedly operating under the guise of a Civilian Joint Taskforce. The suspects arrested include Precious Mene, 31, from Gokana Local Government Area; Blessing Felix, 25, from Sagbama Local Government Area; Barine Gaviga, 32, from Gokana Local Government Area; Joy Ndornyie, 26, from Tai Local Government Area; and Muhammed Ibrahim, 35, from Jigawa State.
The police recovered three locally fabricated pump-action rifles from the suspects during the operation. Preliminary investigations revealed that the group was unlawfully providing security services under a false pretense. The Command emphasized that there is no recognized or legally authorized security outfit known as Civilian Joint Taskforce operating under the authority of the Nigeria Police Force or any government-approved security agency in Rivers State.
Police Warning and Commitment
The Rivers State Police Command categorically stated that no civilian is permitted by law to bear or possess firearms without lawful authorization. Individuals or groups involved in illegal security activities or unlawful possession of arms will face prosecution. Commissioner of Police in the state, Olugbenga Adepoju, reaffirmed the Command's commitment to intelligence-led policing and the protection of lives and property. He warned criminal elements and unlawful groups to desist from illegal activities or face the full weight of the law.
Ongoing Investigations
The Command said investigations are ongoing to uncover the full scope of the group's activities and identify other possible illegal operations within the state. Residents were urged to remain vigilant and continue to support the police with credible information to aid ongoing efforts to combat crime and maintain public safety.
