RismadarVoice Reporters
October 27, 2026
The Rivers State Police Command has arrested five suspected kidnappers accused of using online dating platforms to lure unsuspecting victims before abducting them in parts of the state.
The command also announced the rescue of a 24-year-old woman, identified as Chinyere, who was allegedly kidnapped after travelling from Delta State to Port Harcourt to visit a friend.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police Blessing Agabe, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday in Port Harcourt.
According to Agabe, the victim arrived in Port Harcourt on October 3, 2026, before being abducted along the Igwuruta–Etche Road.
She explained that the command received a report of the incident on October 4, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abduction.
Acting on the directives of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit in Diobu commenced intelligence-led operations to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The police said the investigation resulted in the arrest of five suspects believed to be connected with the kidnapping.
Agabe alleged that the suspects admitted involvement in the incident during interrogation and provided information about other kidnapping operations within the Igwuruta and Etche areas.
According to the command, preliminary investigations also indicated that the suspects allegedly used online dating platforms to establish contact with prospective victims.
They reportedly persuaded individuals from within and outside Port Harcourt to arrange physical meetings before abducting them.
The police said the information obtained from the suspects would assist ongoing investigations into similar incidents and possible criminal connections.
However, the command did not disclose the identities of the five suspects or provide details of any charges filed against them.
The police spokesperson urged residents to exercise caution when interacting with unfamiliar individuals through online dating platforms.
She advised members of the public to verify the identities of people they meet online and take appropriate precautions before arranging physical meetings.
The command also encouraged residents to report suspicious activities and provide credible information that could assist security agencies in preventing kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The arrests form part of ongoing police operations targeting suspected criminal networks operating within Port Harcourt and surrounding communities.
Investigations are continuing, while the suspects remain presumed innocent unless found guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
