Police Foil Robbery Attack in Rivers, Recover Firearm and Motorcycles After Hoodlums Flee Scene

A swift response by operatives of the Rivers State Police Command has thwarted a robbery operation at Igbo Etche Junction, leading to the recovery of a firearm, ammunition, and two operational motorcycles used by the suspects.

According to a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, on May 28, 2025, the police received a distress call on May 15 around 6:40 p.m., reporting that a gang of armed hoodlums were robbing commuters at the busy junction using guns, cutlasses, and other dangerous weapons.

The command’s HAWK Tactical Team responded immediately to the call and moved in on the location. On sighting the approaching officers, the robbers fled into a nearby forest, abandoning some of their operational tools during the chase.

Recovered from the scene were two unregistered motorcycles—a black Opel Sum and a black Quilink—as well as a high-quality European Emerald 12-gauge pump-action rifle. Two live AAA cartridges and one expended shell were also retrieved as evidence.

“The items have been secured and marked as exhibits,” said Iringe-Koko, adding that “investigations are ongoing and every effort is being made to track down the fleeing suspects, recover more weapons, and gather intelligence on the group’s operations.”

She assured the public that the police would not relent in their efforts to rid Rivers State of criminal elements threatening the safety of residents.

Further developments are expected as the investigation continues.

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