Five abducted students of the Rivers State University (RSU) have been safely recovered following a joint operation involving the Rivers State Police Command, other security agencies, and crucial assistance from local community leaders.
The victims—Prince London, Azubuike Kelechukwu, Elizabeth Aniete, Onyebuchi Precious, and London Sampson—were taken around 1 a.m. on December 3 from their remote lodgings in Rumuche/Rumuohia, Emohua Local Government Area.
According to the Rivers State Police Command, the rescue took place in Rumuodogo 2, where the abductors had hidden the students.
Early findings suggest the incident was carried out by suspected cult members, a view supported by community leaders who stated that the attackers were familiar individuals.
The Youth President of Rumuohia said that information gathered shortly after the attack pointed to youths from neighbouring Rumuodogo 1 and 2, allegedly acting with a member of Rumuohia who is now in police custody.
He explained that the community confronted the CDC Chairman of Rumuodogo and set a 3 p.m. ultimatum for the release of the students—a move many residents believe helped speed up the rescue.
Security observers noted that the method of the attack fits common cult group activities in the area, where rival groups often cross into neighbouring territories for dominance, making internal collaboration an important focus for investigators.
A community source remarked, “In every domain, there is a dominant cult group. Nothing major happens there without their knowledge. If an opposing group tries anything, it usually signals a battle for control.”
The police stated that the suspects escaped moments before officers arrived at the hideout but left behind important clues, including the detained collaborator, which they say will support efforts to track the rest of the group.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, praised the rapid cooperation between the community and security agencies, cautioning the fleeing suspects that the command “will not rest until all those responsible are arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.” He encouraged residents to stay calm and continue providing reliable intelligence.
The rescued students have been taken for medical evaluation while the search for the remaining suspects continues.
The Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to public safety and urged residents to carry on with their normal activities without fear.