By Ayo Kehinde
The Rivers State Police Command has dismantled a suspected online-driven kidnapping syndicate operating across state lines, arresting three suspects and rescuing a victim during a coordinated intelligence-led operation in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agebe, disclosed this on Saturday in Port Harcourt, stating that the suspects are allegedly linked to the abduction of Mr Chukwudekwu Emmanuel, a Lagos-based resident who was kidnapped on February 17 in Etche Local Government Area and is still believed to be in captivity.
According to her, the arrests were made on Tuesday by police operatives in Emohua, following actionable intelligence and the deployment of technology-driven tracking strategies.
“Our operatives arrested the three suspects, aided by technology-driven strategies. They are strongly suspected to be involved in the abduction of Emmanuel, who remains in captivity,” Agebe said.
In a breakthrough during the operation, the police also foiled another planned kidnapping and rescued one Mr Chisom George, who had been lured from Anambra State under false pretences.
“They deceitfully invited George from Anambra State under the pretext of an interior decoration job. However, upon his arrival, he was held hostage. George was rescued during the operation by our operatives before any harm could be done,” she said.
Agebe revealed that investigations have exposed a coordinated criminal network that exploits social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Tinder, to lure unsuspecting victims.
“This syndicate specialises in using fake identities and images of reputable personalities to gain the trust of victims online before abducting them,” she explained.
She further disclosed that the suspects allegedly confessed during interrogation to multiple kidnappings across different states, including Lagos and Enugu, underscoring the interstate dimension of the operation.
“The suspects have confessed to involvement in several kidnappings across state lines, and more victims linked to the syndicate have been identified,” she said.
The police spokesperson added that a manhunt has been launched for the fleeing gang leader and other members still at large.
“The command has intensified efforts to arrest the fleeing gang leader and dismantle the entire network. We are committed to ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice,” she assured.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while warning residents about the increasing risks associated with unverified online interactions.
“The public must exercise caution while interacting online and ensure proper verification before meeting strangers or accepting job offers,” Adepoju cautioned.
He also urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, noting that community cooperation remains critical in tackling emerging crime patterns.
