The Nigerian Police Force, Rivers State Command on Thursday says it has arrested four suspected kidnappers terrorizing the people of Egwi-Etche in Etche local government area of the state.
The Command’s Acting Spokesperson, DSP Grace Iringe-Koko in a statement said a cleric, Pastor Jeremiah Atelibo who was abducted by the kidnappers was also rescued when officers raided their hideout.
According to her, “Luck ran out of them when they abducted one Pastor Jeremiah Atelibo of Salvation Ministry Church Port Harcourt on 28th February, 2022.
“Operatives using artificial intelligence were able to locate and storm their hideout and arrested four suspects namely; Barisi Yikes age 31 years, Chinedu Simeon age 28 years, Justice Obodo age 32 years, and Jeffrey age 28 years were arrested and their victim.
“A locally made pistol with three live cartridges was recovered from them, among other exhibits”.
DSP Iringe-Koko also disclosed that officers of the Command, In a related development rescued a cab driver who was said to have been kidnapped last week by another group of kidnappers in Obio/Akpor local government area of the state.
She said, “Following a report of kidnap by one Karibo Awantaye, ‘m’ a bolt driver who was kidnapped along Rumubiakani in Eneka road in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area on 19th March, 2022, police swung into action and the kidnappers were traced and given a hot chase.
“On sighting the police, gun duel ensued with the kidnappers. Two of the suspects were fatally wounded and the victim was rescued unhurt along with his Toyota Corolla vehicle with Registration No. AKD 914 DL.
“Also, the ransom money and other assorted charms were equally recovered at the scene. Efforts are on to arrest the remaining fleeing suspects”, she said.
