The Rivers State Police Command has rescued a kidnapped woman and neutralised two suspected kidnappers during an intelligence-led operation in Emohua Local Government Area of the state.
The operation was carried out by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU), Emohua Annex, following a tip-off on the abduction of the victim, whose name was withheld. The woman, from Omademe Community, was kidnapped on Friday, December 5, 2025, along Ozuaha Road, Emohua.
Police sources said the victim’s brother reported the incident to the Command on December 9, 2025, explaining that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N1.2 million and threatened to kill her if the money was not paid.
Acting swiftly on the information, the police mobilised and tracked the suspects to a forested area off Ozuaha Road. At about 11:30 a.m., operatives stormed the hideout where the kidnappers were allegedly sharing the ransom.
Upon sighting the police, the suspects reportedly opened fire, leading to a gun battle. Two of the suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while others escaped into the forest with gunshot wounds.
The victim was rescued unharmed, and part of the ransom was recovered at the scene.
Items recovered during the operation include one pump-action rifle, five live cartridges, two expended cartridges, and one locally made pistol. All exhibits have been taken into police custody for investigation.
Commending the operatives for their bravery and professionalism, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.
He urged members of the public with useful information on the fleeing suspects to assist the police, assuring that the investigation has been intensified to apprehend those at large and recover the remaining ransom.
The Police Command reiterated its resolve to ensure the safety and security of residents and visitors across Rivers State.
