JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
By Ayo Kehinde
The Rivers State Police Command has dismantled a suspected online-run kidnapping syndicate operating across state borders, arresting three suspects and rescuing one victim during a coordinated intelligence-led operation in the state.
Spokesperson of the command, ASP Blessing Agebe, disclosed this on Saturday in Port Harcourt, saying the suspects were linked to the abduction of Mr Chukwudekwu Emmanuel, a Lagos resident who was kidnapped on February 17 in Etche Local Government Area and is believed to still be in captivity.
According to her, the arrests were made on Tuesday by police officers in Emohua, based on useful information and the implementation of technology-driven tracing strategies.
“Our officers arrested the three suspects, aided by technology-based strategies. They are strongly suspected of being involved in the kidnapping of Emmanuel, who remains captive,” Agebe said.
In a twist during the operation, the police also foiled another planned kidnapping and rescued one Mr. Chisom George, who was lured from Anambra State under false pretences.
“They deceptively invited George from Anambra state under the guise 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 occur,” he said.
Agebe revealed that investigations have exposed a coordinated criminal network exploiting social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Tinder, to lure unsuspecting victims.
“This syndicate specializes in using fake identities and images of respectable personalities to gain the trust of victims online before kidnapping them,” he explained.
He further revealed that the suspects reportedly confessed during interrogation to multiple kidnappings that occurred in 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 other victims linked to the syndicate have been identified,” he said.
The police spokesperson added that a manhunt had been launched against the fleeing gang leader and other members still at large.
“The command has intensified efforts to arrest the leader of the fugitive gang and dismantle the entire network. We are committed to ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, reiterated the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, warning residents of the growing risks associated with unverified online interactions.
“The public must exercise caution when interacting online and ensure proper vetting before meeting strangers or accepting job offers,” Adepoju warned.
He also urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation remains key in tackling emerging crime patterns.
