The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a suspected kidnap kingpin, Nwile Bete, 30, during an operation in Port Harcourt.
The operation also led to the rescue of a 10-year-old boy allegedly abducted by the suspect.
In a statement issued on Friday, December 20, in Port Harcourt, the command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, revealed that Bete allegedly kidnapped the boy on November 25 and demanded a ransom of N5 million for his release.
“After the minor was abducted, his mother reported the incident to the police, prompting the Anti-Kidnapping Unit to take swift action,” Iringe-Koko stated.
Acting on credible intelligence, officers tracked Bete to Rumuekeni School Road in Rumuekeni Town, Port Harcourt, where he was apprehended.
“While in custody, Bete confessed to the crime and subsequently led operatives to Sogho village in Khana area, where the boy was rescued unharmed. The victim has since been debriefed and reunited with his family, while the suspect remains in custody,” Iringe-Koko added.
She confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of Bete’s gang who are still at large.
“This arrest is a significant breakthrough and part of the police command’s broader strategy to tackle crime and criminal activities in Rivers State,” Iringe-Koko said, assuring that Bete would face charges in court upon the conclusion of the investigation.
