Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have rescued a kidnapped woman and neutralised two suspected kidnappers during an intelligence-led operation in Emohua Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, carried out by operatives attached to the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU), Emohua Annex, followed a tip-off and intelligence-led investigation into the abduction of the victim, whose identity was withheld. She was kidnapped on Friday, December 5, 2025, along Ozuaha Road in Emohua.
According to SP Grace Iringe-Koko, Police Public Relations Officer, Rivers State Police Command, the victim’s brother had reported the incident on December 9, 2025, stating that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦1.2 million and threatened to kill the victim if payment was not made promptly. Acting swiftly on the information, operatives mobilised and planned a covert rescue operation.
At about 11:30 a.m., the police team stormed the kidnappers’ hideout located in a forest area off Ozuaha Road, where the suspects were reportedly sharing the ransom.
On sighting the operatives, the armed suspects opened fire, leading to a fierce gun duel. Two of the kidnappers were neutralised, while others escaped into the forest with gunshot wounds.
The victim was rescued unhurt, and part of the ransom was recovered at the scene. Exhibits recovered during the operation include one pump-action rifle, five live cartridges, two expended cartridges and one locally made pistol, all of which are currently in police custody for investigation.
The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the operatives for their bravery and professionalism, noting that they risked their lives to ensure the victim’s safe rescue.
He assured residents of the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order across the state.
The CP further directed that investigations be expedited to apprehend the fleeing suspects, recover the remaining ransom and ensure all those involved are brought to justice, while urging members of the public with credible information to assist the police.
