Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Authorities in Rivers State have apprehended 12 individuals suspected of a violent attack that resulted in widespread gunfire at Unity Estate in the Mbodo-Aluu area of Obio/Akpor Local Government. The incident, which occurred Monday afternoon, prompted significant concern among residents, leading to a swift police response.
In a statement released by the Rivers State Police Command, spokesperson CSP Grace Iringe-Koko detailed that the alleged attackers might have received assistance from local vigilante members. The assailants reportedly used firearms and other weapons to intimidate the community, causing panic among its inhabitants.
The police account indicates that the assault was initiated around 1:15 PM by individuals believed to be part of the OSPAC vigilante group, accompanied by hired thugs wielding dangerous tools like pump-action guns and cutlasses. The spokesperson mentioned that two suspects, Patrick Akandu and Omakwelem Onu Ihunwo Prince, are believed to have orchestrated the attack and are still at large.
Eyewitnesses reported that the violent altercation not only inflicted injuries but also resulted in property damage, with vehicles being vandalized. One local resident, identified as Apostle Stephen Nmacha, sustained a severe gunshot wound to the leg during the altercation and was subsequently kidnapped by the attackers. Other victims sought refuge in nearby bushes amid the chaos.
Following a distress call from the area, police operatives from the Choba Division, along with units from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and Octopus Tactical Teams, were deployed to the scene. Their intervention led to the rescue of Nmacha, who was then transported to a medical facility for treatment.
The police reported recovering several items from the suspects, including an automatic pump-action gun, live cartridges, various charms, motorcycles, mini-buses, and a Toyota Sienna van. Those arrested range in age from 32 to 56 years, reflecting a diverse group involved in the alleged criminal activity.
Authorities are still searching for Azubuike, known as “Ocean,” the OSPAC commander alleged to have led the attack. Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju condemned the incident as reckless, emphasizing that OSPAC members must operate under the police’s oversight and maintain public safety.
Adepoju reassured the public, vowing that efforts are underway to capture any remaining suspects and affirming that the police will not tolerate disruptions to the state’s peace and security. The unfolding situation underscores a growing concern about vigilante actions in the region and the importance of law enforcement maintaining control to safeguard communities.