The Chairman of Abua/ Odual Local Government Area, Mr. Michael Ofori has applauded the effort of local Security operatives which led to the rescue of a kidnap victim and arrest of a suspected member of the kidnapping syndicate.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Eeguode Iyabi on Thursday April 2, 2026, Operatives of the United Hunters Association in Abua/Odual Local Government Area in collaboration with local security networks successfully rescued the kidnapped victim and apprehended one suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate in the Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The victim, Mr Libi Isaiah from Ogbema, was freed during a coordinated operation on Sunday, March 29, 2026, along the Ogbema farm road at the point of ransom exchange.
One suspect, identified as Haruna Saudu, was arrested at the scene, while other members of the gang reportedly fled with injuries and are now being tracked by security forces.
According to the statement, the arrested suspect has been handed over to the Nigerian Police and subsequently transferred, along with the rescued victim and recovered exhibits, to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Port Harcourt for further investigation and prosecution.
The Abua/Odual Council Chairman said operation underscores ongoing efforts by local security architectures to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes in the area.
While reiterating that efforts to rid communities in Abua/ Odual local government area of criminal elements will be intensified, Mr. Ofori urged residents to remain vigilant, provide timely and credible information to security agencies to sustain the relative peace in the local government area.
