Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have foiled a daring kidnapping attempt in Port Harcourt, recovering two AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and arresting a suspected gang member, even as six others made a desperate escape into a nearby river.

The breakthrough comes in the spirit of ongoing security fortification championed by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

Spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, who discloses this in a statement said the incident began in the early hours of March 20, when Fadi Nasser, 35, a resident of Orogbum Crescent, Woji Road, in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), alerted the police after armed men stormed his home in an attempt to abduct him.

According to police sources, the attackers attempted to abduct the victim and opened fire during the incident.

Despite the intensity of the attack, the victim managed to escape, a development described by security officials as both fortunate and critical in triggering a swift police response.

Investigations took a decisive turn after a mobile phone believed to belong to one of the suspects was recovered at the scene.

Acting on this lead, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, based in Aluu, deployed technical intelligence to track the device, leading to the arrest of one Joseph Abibo, identified as a member of the gang.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly provided actionable intelligence that led operatives to the gang’s hideout.

However, on arrival at the location, the police team came under heavy gunfire from other members of the criminal group.

The operatives engaged the suspects in a gun duel and successfully overpowered them. In the process, several members of the gang fled the scene, with police sources confirming that about six suspects escaped into a nearby river with gunshot wounds.

A thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, four magazines, and 108 rounds of live ammunition, believed to have been used by the gang in carrying out their criminal operations.

Security officials said the operation is part of intensified efforts by the command to dismantle kidnapping syndicates and curb violent crimes in Rivers State.

They added that a coordinated manhunt is currently underway to track down the fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons.

Residents in the area have been urged to remain vigilant and support ongoing operations by providing credible and timely information to security agencies.

The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, assuring the public that further developments on the case will be communicated as investigations continue. (The Guardian)