How Kidnap Attempt was Thwarted by Courageous Victim in Woji, Rivers State

Theresa Anyawu’s harrowing ordeal on January 14, 2024, turned into a courageous act leading to the apprehension of a kidnapper gang in Woji, Rivers State. The incident happened under the Rumuokoro bridge, where a tricycle-bound gang targeted posh cars.

Anyawu unwittingly became their target, driving past the gang in her Lexus SUV. Upon reaching Woji, the kidnappers blocked her path, displaying a commando-like approach as they forcibly entered her vehicle. Despite the shock, Anyawu fought back, managing to open the car door, drawing attention from onlookers.

Her brave resistance prompted the gang to flee, abandoning her in the car. A twist of fate occurred as a mobile phone, later identified as belonging to Chinomso Emmanuel, the suspected leader, fell from his pocket in the escape. The discovery led to the arrest of Emmanuel and three others: Prince Dengo, Onyemachi Samuel, and Emeka.

Investigations unveiled a disturbing background, with the suspects revealed as ex-convicts from the Port Harcourt Maximum Security Correctional Facility, serving time for crimes ranging from attempted murder to cultism. Chinonso Emmanuel, the alleged leader, previously served seven years for attempted murder, earning the title of a ‘korofo’ or hostel leader in prison.

Samuel, one of the suspects, disclosed that Emmanuel recruited him and Emeka while they were still incarcerated. Emmanuel’s influence extended to favoring those he had plans for within the prison, creating a network that persisted post-release.

The gang’s operational areas encompassed Ikwerre Road, Mile 3, and Rumuokoro, until their apprehension. Law enforcement recovered two daggers and a machete, with efforts underway to locate a locally made gun reportedly in possession of a fleeing member.