In a significant breakthrough, the Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old man, Goodnews Iberi, in connection with the kidnapping and brutal murder of 25-year-old Rita Special Eleonu. The suspect, a native of Rumuakunde Community in Emohua Local Government Area, was apprehended on January 8, 2026, around 6:30 a.m., during a swift intelligence-led operation by operatives attached to the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU) in Emohua.
The nightmare began on December 13, 2025, when Iberi and four accomplices, who remain at large, lured Rita from her home in Rumuekini Community, Obio/Akpor LGA, to the Rumuakunde area.
There, they abducted her and took her to a forest along the East-West Road in Emohua. Despite the victim's family paying a ransom of ₦210,000 in a desperate bid to secure her release, the kidnappers killed her and buried her remains in a shallow grave.
The breakthrough came after Rita's brother filed a distress report on December 29, 2025. Acting on credible intelligence, police tracked down and arrested Iberi in his hideout. During interrogation, he confessed to his role in the crime and provided details that implicated his fleeing accomplices.
He then led officers to the forest, where the decomposing body was exhumed and taken to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) morgue for autopsy.The Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the arrest and recovery in a statement, noting that the suspect is now in custody while a thorough investigation continues.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the operatives for their prompt and professional response, urging residents to stay vigilant, report suspicious activities, and share any information that could help apprehend the remaining members of the syndicate.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenge of kidnapping in the region, even as authorities work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice and restore public safety.
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