The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a suspected armed robber and recovered five firearms and live ammunition in an intelligence-led operation, as investigators work to dismantle an alleged criminal network.
The command’s spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, an assistant superintendent of police, identified the suspect as Austine Emenike, popularly known as “Oyibo,” from the Aluu community in Rivers State.
Officers recovered one locally-made pistol, four single-barrelled guns, and five live cartridges from Emenike during the operation.
Preliminary investigations have linked the suspect to a wider criminal network, with efforts ongoing to track down other members of the alleged gang.
“Investigators are currently pursuing vital leads aimed at identifying and arresting other members of the gang, as well as uncovering the full scope of their activities,” Agabe said in a statement on Monday.
Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju commended the operatives for their professionalism and commitment, describing the arrest as a reflection of the command’s resolve to combat violent crime across the state.
“This arrest and the recovery of these dangerous weapons underscore our resolve to proactively tackle violent crime and protect the law-abiding people of Rivers State. We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations until criminal elements are completely rooted out,” Adepoju said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons or activities to the police, stressing that public cooperation is critical to improving security.
The arrest comes two days after police in Rivers State recovered a pistol concealed inside a loaf of bread and arrested a suspect in a separate operation.
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