The Rivers State Police Command has arrested 12 suspects following a brazen attack on Unity Estate in Mbodo-Aluu, along Airport Road, Port Harcourt, allegedly carried out by members of the local vigilante group, OSPAC, and hired thugs.
The incident occurred on January 5, 2025, around 1:15 pm, when the armed assailants, wielding pump-action guns, cutlasses, and other dangerous weapons, stormed the estate.
According to a statement by Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-koko, the suspects fired gun shots indiscriminately, causing widespread panic, damaging parts of the estate and several vehicles.
One victim, Apostle Stephen Nmacha from Rumuekini community, sustained a severe gunshot injury that shattered his leg and was abducted by the attackers. Other residents suffered varying degrees of injuries and fled into nearby bushes for safety.
Acting on a distress call, operatives from Choba Division, reinforced by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Octopus Tactical Teams, swiftly responded, rescuing the abducted victim and rushing him to a hospital for treatment.
According to the statement, the Police recovered one automatic pump-action gun, a live cartridge, expended cartridges, assorted charms, five motorcycles, two mini-buses, and one Siena van from the suspects.
The arrested individuals include Chinedu Nnodim (45), Joel Wopara (49), Wopara Iyke (45), Henry Godwin Orumere (44), Chidi Herbert (47), Wobe Ginikanwa (44), Bright Ezekiel (51), Ibuchi Choice Wali Ogba (42), Okechukwu Igwe (54), John Chukwudi (56), Chi Ezekwu (43), and Clement Bassey (32).
Preliminary investigations point to Patrick Akandu and Omakwelem Onu Ihunwo Prince as coordinators of the attack, while Akpor OSPAC Commander, Azubuike alias Ocean, who allegedly led the invasion, remains at large.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, strongly condemned the reckless and reprehensible actions of the OSPAC operatives, stressing that vigilante groups must operate under police supervision.
The command assured residents of their safety and vowed to apprehend fleeing suspects, urging the public to provide information on suspicious activities.
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