The Rivers Police Command has reported that Nwile Bete, 30, a suspected kidnap ringleader, was apprehended during an operation in Port Harcourt.
Additionally, a 10-year-old boy who had been kidnapped by the suspect was rescued as a result of the operation.
The development was revealed in a statement released in Port Harcourt on Friday by SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s spokesperson. She said that on November 25, Bete abducted the boy and wanted N5 million in ransom to free him.
“After the minor was abducted, his mother reported the incident to the police, prompting the Anti-Kidnapping Unit to take swift action,” Iringe-Koko said.
She explained that officers, acting on credible intelligence, 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,” she added.
Iringe-Koko affirmed that efforts are being made to capture the remaining members of Bete’s gang who are presently evading capture. She promised that after the inquiry was finished, the suspect would be charged in court.
“This arrest is a significant breakthrough and part of the police command’s broader strategy to tackle crime and criminal activities in Rivers state,” she said.
Read the full article here
