…Suspect alleged of killing several security agents, residents of Rivers
…involved in sea piracy, kidnapping, arms trafficking
…Residents jubilant after his death
Juliana Francis
Residents of Rivers State were jubilant following the news that a suspected pirate, John Togo the Second, who was also involved in kidnapping and arms trafficking had been neutralised by the State’s Police Command.
According to reports, Togo was a significant threat to coastal communities in Rivers State, particularly along Bonny-Port Harcourt, Okrika, and Andoni waterways.
Togo was the ‘Anchor Head’ of the Iceland Confraternity, and he was alleged to have orchestrated a reign of terror, causing fear and devastation among residents and boat passengers.
The Rivers State Police Command stated: “He operated illegal oil bunkering camps, engaged in arms trafficking, and was responsible for numerous heinous acts such as ambushes, murders, and robberies.
“Togo’s criminal career began in the Borikiri area of Port Harcourt, where he initially engaged in cult-related activities. Gradually, he graduated from petty crimes and evolved into a full-fledged kidnapper and sea pirate, assembling a gang of ruthless criminals along the way.”
The suspect was further alleged to have adopted the alias of ex-militant Togo, who had been killed in July 2011.
Togo and his gang gained notoriety in 2021 due to their involvement in a series of sea piracy and kidnappings, which ignited the #EndSeaPiracy protests and campaigns that reverberated throughout Bonny Island in January 2021.
“One of the most brazen acts committed by Togo was the ambush and subsequent murder of four members of a sister security Agency on the 1st of November 2023 along the Bakana River in Degema Local Government Area,” said the Police.
The Police added: “He was planning to ambush security personnel patrolling the Bille-Degema-Okrika waterways with speedboats to seize their weapons before he was neutralised. Throughout his criminal career, Togo engaged in numerous shootouts with the Marine Police, Nigerian Army, and NSCDC, displaying his utter disregard for law enforcement and public safety.
“In one such encounter on the 17th of July 2023, Togo engaged security forces in a shootout, compelling them to abandon their gunboat.”
Information received by our report says that despite previous encounters with security forces, Togo continued to elude capture.
He allegedly targeted commercial boats, mercilessly killing drivers and flinging passengers into the sea after stealing vessels.
The turning point came when Togo abducted Precious George, the Youth Leader of Ibifara Polo, on the 30th of May 2023.
After holding George captive for 12 days and receiving a ransom of N2.5 million, Togo’s face was unveiled, setting the police on his trail.
The Command explained further: “Acting on credible intelligence, the Rivers State Police Command, in collaboration with the C4i Intelligence Unit and the Borikiri Police Division, launched an operation to apprehend Togo and his gang.
“Cornered and outnumbered, Togo and his accomplices engaged in a firefight, resulting in Togo’s death and the recovery of his body. The neutralisation of Togo, the merciless sea pirate, underscores the commitment of the Rivers State Police Command to protect lives and properties.”
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, speaking on the feat, said: “ We assure the public that we will continue to work tirelessly to rid Rivers State of criminal elements. This successful operation sends a clear message that lawlessness and impunity will not be tolerated.
“We extend our gratitude to all the officers involved in this operation for their bravery and professionalism. Our condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the victims who suffered at the hands of Togo.
“The Rivers State Police Command will maintain close collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders to ensure a safe and secure environment for all. Together, we will prevail against criminal elements and build a peaceful and prosperous society.”
