In Rivers State, the police have arrested 13 individuals, including four soldiers and an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), on charges of armed robbery and hijacking of food trucks.
This was disclosed by the state police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, in a statement released on Monday.
The arrests come after an extensive investigation triggered by an initial burglary in a private warehouse located in the Elimgbu community, Ohio/Akpor Local Government Area.
According to Iringe-Koko, two of the initial suspects were identified as a corporal in the Nigerian Army, stationed in Delta State, and an NSCDC officer, serving in Kabba, Kogi State.
“These security agents abandoned their posts to engage in criminal activities in Rivers State,” Iringe-Koko stated.
The investigation revealed a larger criminal ring involved in not only armed robbery but also the hijacking and diversion of goods.
The gang was reportedly active in intercepting trailers loaded with various goods, such as fertilizers, imported clothing, and POP cement.
Iringe-Koko detailed the recovery of stolen items and a white Toyota Hilux used by the gang in their operations.
“Further investigations uncovered a larger criminal ring involved in armed robbery, hijacking, and goods diversion,” she added.
The Nigerian Army responded swiftly to the involvement of its personnel.
The four soldiers implicated in the crimes were dismissed and handed over to the police for prosecution.
The spokesperson highlighted that the move demonstrates a commitment to maintaining discipline and accountability within the armed forces.
The police spokesperson emphasized the importance of the arrests, noting that such actions are crucial in maintaining public trust and safety.
“These arrests send a clear message that no one is above the law, and those who engage in criminal activities will be brought to justice, irrespective of their position,” Iringe-Koko said.
