The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a suspected armed robber, Austine Emenike, popularly known as “Oyibo,” during an intelligence-driven operation in Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.
The operation also led to the recovery of firearms and ammunition, marking another breakthrough in the command’s ongoing efforts to combat violent crime across Rivers State.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko Agabe, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Monday in Port Harcourt.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out in compliance with the directives of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, following credible intelligence about the suspect’s alleged criminal activities.
“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.
“In line with the directives of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Command swung into action and arrested the suspect, one Austine Emenike, popularly known as ‘Oyibo,’ of Aluu Village, Rivers State,” the statement said.
Items recovered from the suspect included one locally fabricated pistol, four single-barrel guns and five live cartridges.
Police authorities said preliminary investigations have linked Emenike to a larger criminal syndicate believed to be operating within and around the state.
Investigators are currently pursuing additional leads to identify and apprehend other members of the suspected gang, while also working to determine the full extent of their alleged criminal operations.
“Preliminary findings revealed that the suspect is linked to a wider criminal network.
“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 added.
Reacting to the development, Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju commended the operatives involved in the operation and reaffirmed the command’s determination to rid the state of violent criminals.
He stated that the arrest and seizure of weapons demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in tackling insecurity across Rivers 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.
The commissioner also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and support the police by providing timely and credible information capable of preventing criminal activities.
He stressed that public cooperation remains essential in strengthening security and ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state.
The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations and maintaining pressure on criminal groups until lasting peace and security are achieved throughout the state.
