Following weeks of intelligence-led operations, the Rivers State Police Command has arrested five more suspects in connection with the robbery incidents at the Dr. Obi Wali International Cultural Centre and Tottinno Filling Station in Port Harcourt.
The suspects were arrested separately at different locations, including the Diobu and Ikoku areas of the metropolis, on November 25, 26 and 28, 2025. The latest development brings the total number of suspects in police custody to nine.
Those arrested include Victor Ukabi (41) from Nkpa in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State; Basil Nwagazie (65) from Eziebodo in Owerri West LGA of Imo State; Nkechinyere Wokem (30), a POS operator from Ubuohia Mbaise LGA of Imo State; Obinna Nwankwo (44) from Umuaji Uloke in Omuma LGA of Rivers State; and Igwe Amabi Eze (51) from Osuofio in Aguata LGA of Anambra State, identified by police as the receiver of the stolen items.
Police recalled that the alleged leader of the gang, Bright Nwabueze, also known as “Bishop” (53), was earlier intercepted and arrested at the Rumuokoro Flyover, where two rifles were recovered from his vehicle.
Recovered exhibits in the course of the investigation include a 30KVA generator, retrieved from a buyer in Onitsha on December 12, 2025, inverter batteries recovered from a receiver’s shop in Ikoku, and two rifles.
The suspects and recovered items are currently in police custody.
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju commended the operatives involved for their professionalism and dedication, assuring residents that investigations have been intensified to apprehend other fleeing suspects.
He urged members of the public to continue to support police efforts by providing credible information that would aid the Command’s fight against crime and criminality across the state.
Police sources said investigations have been intensified to identify and apprehend other members of the robbery syndicate who are still at large.
The Command confirmed that all suspects currently in custody will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Rivers State Police Command also advised residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or through established security channels.
According to the Command, sustained intelligence-led patrols and targeted operations are being deployed across key areas to prevent a recurrence of similar crimes.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Police assured residents that proactive measures would continue to be strengthened to curb criminal activities and ensure the protection of lives and property across the state.
