Police Arrest Four Soldiers, NSCDC Operative, Others for Robbery

The Rivers State Police Command has detained 13 individuals, including four soldiers and a Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) operative, for their involvement in armed robbery and the hijacking of food trucks.

Command spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko announced the arrests in a statement on Monday. The arrests followed an investigation triggered by an attempted burglary at a private warehouse in Elimgbu, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.

The suspects allegedly left their duty posts in Delta and Kogi States to engage in criminal activities in Rivers State. Their confessions led to the apprehension of additional operatives and their civilian accomplices. Among those arrested are four soldiers and one NSCDC operative, all of whom admitted to the crimes.

The statement details that on March 4, 2024, police received a distress call about a burglary at warehouses owned by Emmanuel Nwangwu and Ndifreke Ekanem. Police quickly mobilized and apprehended five suspects, including Corporal West Isaac of the Nigerian Army and NSCDC officer Jabila Kammangar, who abandoned their posts to engage in these activities.

Further investigations revealed their participation in a larger criminal network involved in armed robbery and the hijacking of goods. They used military gear and a white Hilux van to intimidate and assault drivers, diverting trailers to pre-arranged locations.

Additional arrests included Lance Corporal Abdul Musa, Lance Corporal Mgbe Jeoffrey, and Corporal Innocent Okwoli of the Nigerian Army. Eight civilian collaborators were also detained.

Corporal Okwoli, identified as a key coordinator, confessed to leading hijacking operations with accomplices. Their crimes included hijacking trailers carrying valuable goods like fertilizer and imported clothing.

Police have recovered stolen items and a vehicle used in the crimes. The arrested soldiers have been dismissed by the Nigerian Army and handed over for prosecution.

State Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu commended the military for their swift cooperation and emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust in law enforcement. He praised the officers involved and urged continued vigilance.