Rivers Police arrest nine suspects in Port Harcourt robberies, recover rifles, generator and batteries as investigations deepen into organised crime networks.
The Rivers State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on criminal networks operating in Port Harcourt, following the arrest of five additional suspects linked to two recent robbery incidents within the city.
The arrests mark a significant step forward in the ongoing investigation into attacks that occurred at the Dr. Obi Wali International Cultural Centre and the Tottinno Filling Station.
Police authorities confirmed that the suspects were apprehended in separate operations across the Diobu and Ikoku areas of Port Harcourt, after weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering.
With the latest development, the total number of suspects currently in custody has risen to nine, highlighting the scale of the criminal operation under investigation.
According to the Rivers Police, the robbery incidents initially triggered widespread concern among residents due to their coordinated nature and the boldness with which the attacks were carried out.
This prompted the Command to deploy specialised investigative teams to identify those responsible, track the movement of stolen items, and dismantle the gang’s support network.
Among the newly arrested suspects is a Point-of-Sale (PoS) operator, a development that has raised further questions about how criminal gangs exploit legitimate businesses to facilitate or conceal illicit activities.
Police sources noted that financial service points are increasingly being scrutinised in criminal investigations, particularly where proceeds of crime are suspected to have been laundered or transferred.
The suspects arrested include Victor Ukabi, 41, from Bende Local Government Area of Abia State; Basil Nwagazie, 65, from Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State; Nkechinyere Wokem, 30, a PoS operator from Mbaise in Imo State; Obinna Nwankwo, 44, from Omuma Local Government Area of Rivers State; and Igwe Amabi Eze, 51, from Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Investigators believe each suspect played a distinct role in the execution of the robberies or the disposal of stolen property.
Prior to these arrests, operatives had earlier intercepted the alleged gang leader, Bright Nwabueze, also known as “Bishop,” at the Rumuokoro Flyover.
Two rifles were recovered from his vehicle at the time of arrest, strengthening suspicions that the robberies were carried out with the threat or use of firearms.
His arrest was described by senior officers as a turning point in the investigation.
As part of efforts to recover stolen assets, the Rivers Police tracked a 30KVA generator taken during the robbery to Onitsha, Anambra State.
The item was eventually recovered from a buyer on December 12, 2025, following inter-state collaboration between police commands.
In addition, inverter batteries linked to the robbery were retrieved from a receiver’s shop in Ikoku, Port Harcourt.
Police officials stated that the recovery of these items has provided critical evidence, helping investigators reconstruct the chain of events from the robbery scenes to the final destinations of the stolen goods.
The Command believes more recoveries may follow as questioning of the suspects continues.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, described the arrests and recoveries as a reflection of effective intelligence-led policing.
She noted that officers worked across multiple locations and timelines, demonstrating patience and professionalism in order to avoid premature arrests that could compromise the investigation.
She added that the Rivers Police remain committed to ensuring that everyone connected to the crimes, whether directly involved or acting as receivers of stolen items, is brought before the law.
According to her, investigations are ongoing to identify additional accomplices and uncover whether the gang is linked to other robbery cases within or outside the state.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, commended the operatives for their dedication and courage.
He also reassured residents that the Command is strengthening its operational strategies to curb violent and property-related crimes across Rivers State.
CP Adepoju urged members of the public to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information, stressing that community cooperation remains essential to crime prevention.
He noted that while arrests are important, sustained public vigilance is key to dismantling criminal networks permanently.
Security analysts have described the development as a positive signal, suggesting that sustained pressure on criminal gangs will discourage similar attacks in the future.
They also emphasized the importance of prosecuting receivers of stolen items, noting that such individuals often sustain robbery syndicates by providing ready markets for stolen goods.
As the suspects remain in custody, the Rivers Police have assured residents that justice will be pursued diligently and transparently.
The Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while warning criminals that Rivers State will not serve as a safe haven for organised crime.
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