The Nigeria Police Force has successfully arrested a 26-year-old native of Rumuakunde Community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, Goodnews Iberia, in connection with the abduction and murder of a native of Rumuekini Community in Obio/Akpor LGA, also of Rivers State, Rita Eleonu, aged 25years.
Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, a Chief Superintendent of Police, disclosed this on Monday, January 12, 2026 via a press release in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
According to her, the operatives attached to the Command’s Anti-Cultism Unit swung into action upon receiving a distress intelligence on Thursday, January 8, 2026 which led to the arrest of Iberia in his hideout.
Iringe-Koko stated that on Saturday, December 13, 2025, the murder suspect and four others, who are still at large, lured the victim to Rumuakunde axis and abducted her, taking her to an evil forest in Emohua.
The suspects after collecting a ransom of N210,000 from the family later killed the victim.
Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime, staying his role and further incriminating four other accomplices.
The suspect led operatives to where the remains of the victim was recovered and finally deposited into the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital morgue for autopsy.
Iringe-Koko added that the suspect is currently in Police custody and further investigations have been launched while efforts are being made to apprehend fleeing members of the syndicate.
She said the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju commended the operatives for their swift response, encouraging the public to maintain trust in the Police operations and support with relevant intelligence to enhance prompt response and quick action.
Citizens are advised to remain calm and report any suspicious activities, provide credible information that could aid in the arrest of other members of the syndicate.