Port Harcourt, Nigeria — A violent incident at Unity Estate in Mbodo–Aluu led to the arrest of twelve suspects, according to officials with the Rivers State Police Command. The attack unfolded on January 5, 2025, at approximately 1:15 p.m., when individuals believed to be members of the OSPAC vigilante group, accompanied by armed thugs, stormed the residential area.
CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the police’s Public Relations Officer, detailed that the assailants used firearms and other dangerous weapons during the attack, which left residents in a state of fear. Preliminary reports indicated that two suspects, identified as Patrick Akandu and Omakwelem Onu Ihunwo Prince, are still at large after allegedly orchestrating the assault.
The violent raid caused significant property damage, with reports of vehicles being vandalized within the estate. One victim, identified as Apostle Stephen Nmacha from the nearby Rumuekini Community, sustained serious injuries from a gunshot wound to his leg and was subsequently abducted. Other victims fled into nearby bushes to escape the chaos.
Police operatives received an emergency call and quickly dispatched personnel from the Choba Division along with reinforcement units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Octopus Tactical Teams. Their swift response resulted in the rescue of the abducted individual, who was then transported to a medical facility for urgent care.
Authorities recovered a range of evidence from the apprehended suspects, including an automatic pump-action gun, cartridges, assorted charms, and several vehicles, including motorcycles and mini-buses. The arrested individuals range in age from 32 to 56 and hail from various locations within Rivers State.
The police are actively pursuing the Akpor OSPAC Commander, known as Azubuike, who allegedly directed the attack. Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju condemned the violence and emphasized that OSPAC operatives must operate under police supervision to maintain public order.
He reassured residents of Rivers State that measures are underway to ensure their safety and that all remaining suspects would be apprehended. Adepoju stressed that law enforcement would not tolerate acts that disrupt the peace and security of the community.
The police are calling on members of the public to assist with any information that may help locate the outstanding suspects or to report any suspicious activities to local authorities.