The Rivers State Police Command has arrested three suspected kidnappers in connection with the abduction and killing of Humphrey Wagbara of Igwuruta-Atali, even after his family paid a ₦6.9 million ransom. The suspects were paraded by the police following their arrest during an intelligence-led operation.

🔍 The Arrests and Suspects

The suspects, identified as:

• Hassan Mohammed (20), from Wandigah Town, Mandagali, Borno State

• Bello Abubakar (25), from Roundabout Maura, Sokoto State

• Yusuf Ahmed (23), from Hazari LGA, Bauchi State

They were apprehended on September 19, 2025, around 2:00 a.m., in coordinated raids across Obio/Akpor and Ikwerre Local Government Areas of Rivers State.

⚖️ The Crimes

• On August 26, 2025, the suspects kidnapped Humphrey Wagbara and collected ₦6.9 million ransom from his family. Despite the payment, they killed him and disposed of his body.

• On September 12, 2025, they abducted another victim, Mercy Chinyere, from the same area. Her family reportedly paid ₦3.5 million ransom before she was released alive.

🛑 Recovered Exhibits

During the operation, police recovered:

• A G-3 rifle with breech number 10398

• One magazine

• An Itel phone belonging to the late Wagbara

• Three short daggers, a jack knife, and a stainless steel short knife

The suspects confessed to multiple kidnappings in Rivers State and are currently in custody as investigations continue to trace other members of the syndicate.

🚨 Police Statement

The Rivers State Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the arrests and assured the public that the command is committed to crushing criminal networks in the state. The suspects will be arraigned once investigations are concluded.

📌 Why This Matters

Kidnapping for ransom continues to be a major security challenge in Rivers and across Nigeria. This case is particularly tragic as the victim was murdered even after a huge ransom was paid, raising fresh concerns about the cruelty of criminal gangs and the urgent need for stronger security interventions.

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