The Rivers State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 26-year-old man in connection with the abduction and subsequent murder of a young woman, Rita Special Eleonu.
The breakthrough comes after a coordinated operation by the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU) aimed at dismantling a violent kidnapping syndicate operating within the Emohua axis.
The suspect, identified as Goodnews Iberi, a native of Rumuakunde Community in Emohua Local Government Area, was apprehended during a pre-dawn raid on his hideout on January 8, 2026.
Police reports indicate that Iberi and four accomplices, who remain at large, allegedly lured the 25-year-old victim to the Rumuakunde area on December 13, 2025. From there, she was forcibly taken to a forest along the East/West Road.
Tragically, despite the victim’s family paying a ransom of ₦210,000, the kidnappers proceeded to kill her. The matter was officially brought to the attention of the authorities on December 29, 2025, when the victim’s brother filed a distress report.
Following his arrest, the suspect provided a voluntary statement to investigators. According to Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, Iberi admitted to his involvement in the crime and provided details regarding his four accomplices.
“During preliminary interrogation, the suspect voluntarily confessed to the crime, highlighting his role and further incriminating four other accomplices,” Iringe-Koko stated. “The suspect led Police Operatives to where the victim’s decomposing remains were recovered from the forest.”
The remains of the deceased have since been deposited at the University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) morgue, where an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
The Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, praised the diligence of the Emohua annexe operatives for their swift response and use of intelligence-led policing. While the primary suspect is in custody, the CP emphasised that the investigation is far from over as the search for the remaining gang members intensifies.
“The public is encouraged to maintain trust in Police operations and to support the Command with intelligence that can enhance prompt response and strengthen our collective fight against crime in all its manifestations,” the Commissioner remarked. He further urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, calling on anyone with information regarding the fugitives to step forward.
The Rivers State Police Command has assured the public that it is committed to ensuring all members of the syndicate face the full weight of the law.
