The Rivers State Police Command has recorded another major operational breakthrough in its sustained war against crime after dismantling an illegal security outfit allegedly operating under the guise of a “Civilian Joint Taskforce” in Rivers State.

The intelligence-led operation resulted in the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of locally fabricated firearms during a targeted raid in Sakpenwa, Tai Local Government Area.

Police Launch Major Crackdown on Illegal Security Groups

According to the Rivers State Police Command, the operation was carried out in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at intensifying intelligence-led policing and clamping down on illegal arms and criminal groups nationwide.

Acting on credible intelligence, operatives attached to the State Intelligence Department (SID) stormed the hideout of the suspected illegal outfit on May 6, 2026, at about 2:00 PM.

The operation successfully disrupted the activities of the group allegedly posing as a security organization without lawful authorization.

Five Suspects Arrested During Raid

Police authorities confirmed the arrest of the following suspects during the operation:

• Precious Mene (Female, 31 years) — Gokana Local Government Area
• Blessing Felix (Female, 25 years) — Sagbama Local Government Area
• Barine Gaviga (Male, 32 years) — Gokana Local Government Area
• Joy Ndornyie (Female, 26 years) — Tai Local Government Area
• Muhammed Ibrahim (Male, 35 years) — Jigawa State

The suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue.

Firearms Recovered by Police

During the raid, operatives recovered:

• Three locally fabricated pump-action rifles

Police described the recovery as a major success in ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and dismantle unauthorized security formations across Rivers State.

Police Declare “Civilian Joint Taskforce” Illegal

The Rivers State Police Command stated clearly that no recognized or legally authorized security outfit known as “Civilian Joint Taskforce” exists under the Nigeria Police Force or any approved government security agency within the state.

Authorities also emphasized that civilians are not permitted by law to possess or operate firearms without proper authorization.

The Command warned that any individual or group found engaging in illegal security operations or unlawful possession of weapons would face the full weight of the law.

Investigations Ongoing

Police say investigations are still ongoing to uncover the full scope of the group’s activities and identify other possible illegal operations connected to the suspects.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing, public safety, and the protection of lives and property across Rivers State.

He also issued a stern warning to criminal elements and unlawful groups to immediately desist from illegal activities or face decisive police action.

Residents Urged to Remain Vigilant

The Rivers State Police Command urged residents to remain law-abiding and continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information capable of assisting ongoing efforts to sustain peace and public order across the state.

Emergency Contacts

Complaint Response Unit (CRU)

07057605209

07057605256

08120822987

07072323049

Control Room

08032003514