The Rivers State Police Command has announced the successful rescue of a kidnap victim, Mathew John Zephaniah, who was abducted in the Oyigbo area of the state. The operation, which took place in the Agbo-Nchia Forest, also led to the recovery of the victim’s belongings and suspected items linked to the fleeing kidnappers.
According to a press release signed by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the rescue was carried out following credible intelligence and swift tactical response by operatives drawn from units under the Oyigbo Area Command. The police team worked in coordination with members of the local vigilante group, OSPAC.
Upon arrival at the kidnappers’ hideout, the suspects reportedly opened fire on the security team, prompting a gunfight. Overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the police, the suspects abandoned the victim and escaped into the forest with gunshot wounds.
Recovered from the scene were the victim’s HP laptop and Redmi mobile phone, as well as two Android phones and a smart wristwatch believed to belong to the fleeing suspects.
The police confirmed that the victim was unharmed, debriefed, and has since been reunited with his family.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju commended the operatives for their swift action and reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
The Command urged the public to report anyone with suspicious gunshot wounds to the nearest police station or other security agencies.