Police Rescue Abducted Resident, Launch Manhunt for Fleeing Vigilante Leaders
The Nigerian Police Force has arrested 12 suspects in connection with a violent attack on a residential estate in Rivers State, while a vigilante commander and other key suspects have fled, according to a report by Sahara Reporters.
The incident occurred on Sunday night, January 5, 2026, at Unity Estate along Mbodo–Aluu, Airport Road, Port Harcourt. Armed men reportedly stormed the estate, firing gunshots indiscriminately, vandalising vehicles and causing panic among residents.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers were allegedly members of the local vigilante group, OSPAC, alongside hired thugs. During the attack, a resident identified as Apostle Stephen Nmacha was abducted and sustained a gunshot injury before police intervention led to his rescue.
Following a distress call, operatives from the Choba Police Division, supported by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and the Octopus Tactical Team, swiftly responded to the scene.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 12 suspects, while several others escaped during the operation.
Police recovered several exhibits from the suspects, including:
- A pump-action gun
- Live and expended cartridges
- Assorted charms
- Five motorcycles
- Two mini-buses and one van
Authorities revealed that the OSPAC commander, popularly known as Azubuike (aka Ocean), alongside other alleged masterminds, has gone into hiding. Police have declared them wanted and launched a manhunt to apprehend all fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, condemned the attack, warning that vigilante groups must operate strictly within the law and under police supervision.
He stressed that no individual or group has the authority to take the law into their own hands, assuring residents that all those involved will be brought to justice.
The police have urged members of the public to provide credible information that could aid in the arrest of the suspects still at large.
The incident has renewed concerns over the activities of armed vigilante groups and rising insecurity in parts of Rivers State, with residents calling for stronger regulation and accountability.
