The Rivers State Police Command has arrested 12 suspects in connection with a violent attack on an estate in Mbodo, Aluu, in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon when armed assailants, allegedly comprising members of a vigilante group known as OSPAC and hired thugs, invaded the estate in a commando-style operation, firing sporadically and damaging vehicles and property.
The spokesperson of the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Tuesday. She said the attackers also abducted a resident who sustained a gunshot injury to the leg during the attack.
According to the police, operatives swiftly responded to a distress call and were reinforced by personnel from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Octopus Tactical Teams. The abducted victim was rescued and taken to a medical facility for treatment.
Iringe-Koko said preliminary investigations revealed that the attack was coordinated by two suspects, Patrick Akandu and Omakwelem Onu Ihunwo Prince, who are currently at large. She added that several other residents sustained injuries and fled into nearby bushes for safety.
The police recovered several exhibits from the suspects, including one automatic pump-action gun, live and expended cartridges, assorted charms, five motorcycles, two mini-buses and a Siena vehicle.
Those arrested were identified as Chinedu Nnodim, Joel Wopara, Wopara Iyke, Henry Godwin Orumere, Chidi Herbert, Wobe Ginikanwa, Bright Ezekiel, Ibuchi Choice Ogba, Okechukwu Igwe, John Chukwudi, Chi Ezekwu and Clement Bassey.
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The police also declared the Akpor OSPAC Commander, identified as Azubuike, also known as Ocean, wanted in connection with the attack.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Olugbenga Adepoju, condemned the actions of the OSPAC personnel, describing them as reckless and reprehensible. He said vigilante groups are expected to operate strictly under police supervision and in collaboration with the command.
Adepoju assured residents of the state of their safety, noting that efforts were ongoing to arrest all fleeing suspects and ensure they are brought to justice. He urged members of the public with useful information to assist the police by reporting to the nearest police station.